Evaluation of the apical microleakage of four root canal sealers

Objectives:, The aim of this in vitro study was to compare the sealing ability of two commonly used root canal sealers (Grossman's sealer and AH Plus) with two new resin-based sealers (EndoREZ and RealSeal)using a dye penetration test. Methods: Forty extracted human maxillary canines were instrumented up to a size 45/.06 K3 instrument 1 mm short of the anatomical apex. Irrigation was performed with 1 mL of 2.5% sodium hypochlorite alternated with the same volume of 17% EDTA between instruments. A final flush of 10 ml EDTA solution was performed and the canals were dried with paper points. Samples were randomly divided in four groups and canals were sealed according to the lateral condensation technique. Group 1 received Grossman's sealer (Endofill, Dentsply, Brazil); Group 2 was obturated with EndoREZ (Ultradent Products Inc., South Jordan, UT, USA); Group 3 received AH Plus (Dentsply-Maillefer, Ballaigues, Switzerland) as root canal sealer and Group 4, RealSeal (SybronEndo, Glendora, USA). Teeth were stored at 37o C, 100% air humidity for 72 hours. After this, three layers of nail polish were applied to the surface of each tooth, except for the apical 2 mm. Each group was separately immersed in India ink, stored at 37oC for 1 week and washed with running water for 24 hours. The nail polish was removed and the teeth were demineralized using 5% hydrochloric acid, followed by dehydration in ascending concentrations of ethanol and finally transferred to methyl salicylate for diaphanization. The cleared teeth were analyzed by means of a measurement microscope. The extent of dye penetration was measured in millimeters. Results:, The Kruskal-Wallis test revealed significant differences between groups (P = 0.0013). Conclusions: AH Plus and RealSeal groups were statistically similar, with the lowest penetration values, while EndoFill presented the highest infiltration values; EndoREZ assumed an intermediary position.