Comparative evaluation of apical microleakage in bioceramic and epoxy resin-based sealers using dye penetration and SEM analysis: An in vitro study

TL;DR

This study compares bioceramic and epoxy resin-based sealers for their ability to prevent microleakage in root canal treatments.

Contribution

The study provides new empirical evidence on the superior sealing performance of bioceramic sealers over epoxy resin-based ones.

Findings

Bioceramic sealers showed significantly less dye penetration (1.42 ± 0.23 mm) compared to epoxy resin-based sealers (2.68 ± 0.31 mm).

SEM analysis revealed better interfacial adaptation and fewer gaps with bioceramic sealers.

Epoxy resin-based sealers exhibited more voids and detachment from the dentin.

Abstract

Root canal therapy success depends on achieving a hermetic apical seal to prevent microbial reinfection. Sealers play a crucial role
in minimizing microleakage and ensuring long-term treatment success. In this study of forty extracted teeth, a bioceramic sealer
demonstrated significantly less dye penetration (1.42 ± 0.23 mm) than an epoxy resin-based sealer (2.68 ± 0.31 mm, p < 0.
05). Scanning electron microscopy revealed superior interfacial adaptation with fewer gaps in the bioceramic group, while epoxy resin-
based sealers showed more voids and detachment. These findings indicate that bioceramic sealers provide improved sealing and adaptation
to dentin, enhancing the apical seal quality in endodontic therapy.