Comparative Evaluation of Penetrability of Various Bioceramic Sealers into the Tubules of Radicular Dentin

Abstract

Aim: This study aimed to evaluate the penetration depth and persistence of sealer residues in obturated canals with three different bioceramic sealers using confocal microscopy. Materials and Methods: In total, 60 single-rooted human premolars were selected and decoronated to maintain the working length of 14 mm. The samples were biomechanically prepared and obturated with Protaper Universal GP coated with three different bioceramic sealers, that is, CeraSeal RC, Bio-C and MTA Fillapex. The specimens were divided into three groups ( n = 20) depending on the sealer used. Rhodamine B fluorescent dye was added to the sealers before using them for obturation. The obturated samples were sealed and placed in 100% humidity at 37oC for 7 days. Gutta-percha was removed from all the samples using retreatment files. Each sample was horizontally sectioned into 2 mm thick slices at 3 mm and 5 mm from the apex, which were analysed under a confocal scanning microscope to detect the depth of penetration of sealer into the dentinal tubules. Data were analysed using one-way ANOVA and Tukey’s post hoc tests. Results: Intergroup comparison of penetration depth at 3 mm showed that the mean depth of penetration among CeraSeal samples was found to be significantly more as compared to the other two materials, while, no statistically significant difference was found among Bio-C and MTA Fillapex with the significance level established at 5% ( P < .05). Similarly, an intergroup comparison of penetration depth at 5 mm showed that the mean depth of penetration among CeraSeal samples was found to be significantly more as compared to the other two materials, while, no statistically significant difference was found among Bio-C and MTA Fillapex. CeraSeal RC sealer showed significantly higher depth of penetration than Bio-C and MTA Fillapex. Conclusion: All bioceramic sealers show a significant penetration into the dentinal tubules. However, none of the sealers was completely removed from the tubules following retreatment.