In vitro evaluation of a Ceramicrete-based root-end filling material

Current root-end filling materials face limitations in sealing and long-term stability. Super EBA and ProRoot MTA are commonly used but may not fully prevent fluid infiltration. Researchers have explored alternative materials with better sealing properties. Ceramicrete is known for its use in waste encapsulation due to its low porosity. No prior work had resolved whether Ceramicrete could serve as a root-end filling material. This gap motivated the investigation into its potential for endodontic applications. The study aimed to compare Ceramicrete-D with established materials in sealing performance. The results could influence material selection in apical surgery.

The study aimed to assess the feasibility of Ceramicrete-D as a root-end filling material. The primary goal was to compare its sealing ability with Super EBA and ProRoot MTA. Researchers used a computerized fluid filtration method to evaluate apical seal quality. They also examined the material’s microstructure and surface interactions. The motivation stemmed from the need for more durable and bioactive filling options. Ceramicrete-D’s potential bioactivity in phosphate-containing environments was of particular interest. The study focused on in vitro conditions to isolate material properties. The findings could guide future clinical applications of Ceramicrete-based materials.

The study involved root-end preparations filled with three materials: Super EBA, ProRoot MTA, and Ceramicrete-D. A computerized fluid filtration system measured apical seal effectiveness after immersion in phosphate-containing fluid. Scanning electron microscopy was used to analyze the microstructure of set Ceramicrete-D. X-ray diffraction identified the crystalline phases formed during setting. Polished dentin slabs were filled and immersed in PCF for 72 hours. Surface changes were observed using SEM to detect crystallite formation. The pH of the PCF was monitored over time to assess material interactions. The experimental setup allowed for controlled comparison of sealing and bioactivity.

Ceramicrete-D showed significantly better apical sealing than Super EBA and ProRoot MTA (P < 0.05). The computerized fluid filtration method confirmed its superior barrier properties. SEM revealed a nonporous KMgPO4.6H2O matrix in the set material. X-ray diffraction identified CaHPO4.2H2O as a reaction product. After 72 hours in PCF, apatite-like crystallites formed on the material surface. These clusters were acicular in shape and increased with immersion time. The pH of the PCF rose during the experiment, suggesting material interaction. The results suggest Ceramicrete-D may be bioactive in phosphate-rich environments.

The study found that Ceramicrete-D outperformed two commercial root-end filling materials in sealing ability. The material’s nonporous matrix contributes to its superior apical seal. SEM and X-ray diffraction confirmed the formation of stable reaction phases. Apatite-like crystallites formed on the surface in phosphate-containing fluid. The pH increase in PCF suggests a chemical interaction with the material. These findings support the potential bioactivity of Ceramicrete-D. The material may offer advantages in long-term stability and integration. Further research is needed to confirm clinical applicability and long-term performance.