Methods: Seventy-two single-roots were instrumented with 0.06 tapered K3 files to ISO size 45 and irrigated with 10mL of 5.25% NaOCl and 10mL 17% EDTA to remove the smear layer. The teeth were randomly divided into three experimental groups according to the sealer used (n=24). Then they were divided into two subgroups (n=12). First group were filled with Ca(OH)2 paste Calxyl (OCO-Praeparate GmBH, Dirmstein, Germany) and incubated for 7 days. Paste was removed with using NaOCl (5.25%, 5 ml), instrumentation with K3, size 45 files and EDTA (17%, 5 ml) irrigation. The second group was filled immediately without applying any medication. Leakage was measured using the fluid filtration conduction method and determined as microL. Data was statistically analyzed with using One-way ANOVA and Tukey HSD tests (P=0.05).
Results: There was statistically significant difference in leakage between the groups filled after calcium hydroxide dressing and the group without calcium hydroxide application (P<0.05). Sealing ability of all the sealers improved after Ca(OH)2 dressing and it was statistically significant only for GuttaFlow sealer.
Conclusion: Within the limitation of this in vitro study, it was concluded that Ca(OH)2 agents left on the canal wall might cause some changes to the sealing ability of the sealers and may improve the apical sealing quality of the root canal fillings according to the sealer used.
Acknowledgements: Authors would like to thank to the Coltène/Whaledent, Ivoclar Vivadent and Sun Medical companies for their material support.