Related Experiment Video
Updated: Feb 12, 2026

Author Spotlight: Establishing an Accurate Microhardness Testing Protocol for Craniofacial Tissues
Published on: April 26, 2024
Different Setting Conditions Affect Surface Characteristics and Microhardness of Calcium Silicate-Based Sealers
Dong-Kyu Yang1, Sunil Kim2, Jeong-Won Park3
1Department of Conservative Dentistry, College of Dentistry, Gangnam Severance Hospital, Yonsei University, 211 Eonju-ro, Gangnam-gu, Seoul 135-720, Republic of Korea.
Objective:
To investigate the effect of different setting conditions on surface microhardness and setting properties of calcium silicate-based sealers.
Methods:
Three sealers, EndoSequence Bioceramic (BC; Brasseler USA, Savannah, GA, USA), Endoseal MTA (ES; Maruchi, Wonju, Korea), and Well-Root ST (WR; Vericom, Chuncheon, Korea), were compared. Specimens were exposed to either butyric acid (pH 5.4) or phosphate-buffered saline (PBS [pH 7.4]) for 48 h and stored at 100% humidity for 12 days. The control specimens were stored at 100% humidity for 14 days. Surface microhardness was measured, topographic changes were observed, and phase analysis was performed using X-ray diffraction. Microhardness according to storage conditions was compared using one-way analysis of variance and Tukey's multiple comparison tests (P < .05).
Results:
The BC and ES sealers exhibited decreased microhardness when stored in acid or PBS compared with control (P < .05). In the WR group, acid exposure lowered microhardness of the specimens compared with control (P < .05). Scanning electron microscopy revealed different topographies in specimens from all tested sealers exposed to acid or PBS.
Conclusion:
The surface microhardness of calcium silicate-based sealers was reduced by exposure to either acid or PBS. Acid solutions, however, had a more detrimental effect than PBS.
Related Concept Videos
Role of Affect in Interpersonal Attraction
Cell-surface Signaling
Characteristics of Life
The Influence of Affect on Cognition
The Influence of Cognition on Affect
Background and Environment Affect Phenotype
An example of how genetic background affects phenotype can be seen in horses. The Extension gene in horses is responsible for their coat color. A wild-type gene (EE) produces black pigment in the coat, while a mutant gene (ee) produces red pigment. A...

