Tooth discoloration induced by endodontic sealers and cervical limit: 1-year in vitro evaluation

This laboratory study aimed to evaluate the influence of endodontic sealer and cervical limit of root filling on the discoloration of root canal treated teeth. Bovine incisors were randomly distributed into six experimental groups and control (n=21/group), according to the endodontic sealer used [AH Plus (AP); MTA Fillapex (MF) and Sealer Plus BC (SPB)] and the cervical limit of root filling [dental cervix (DC) or 2 mm in apical direction (2mm-AD)]. Tooth discoloration (ΔE) was evaluated by a digital spectrophotometer using the CIED2000 method. Color assessments were performed immediately before (baseline), 1 week, 1, 3, 6 months, and 1 year after obturation. Data were analyzed by ANOVA and Tukey's post-hoc tests (α=5%). Teeth filled with the three sealers showed perceptible tooth discoloration (ΔE≥2.7) in 1 week, maintaining similar values over time. There was a significant difference between MF and SPB sealers in the 2mm-AD groups. In addition, 2mm-AD groups promoted significantly lower discoloration than DC groups for AH (3 months) and SPB (1 and 3 months) sealer,s. Teeth filled with AP, MF, and SPB sealers displayed discoloration from 1 week to one year, with differences between MF and SPB sealers. A cervical limit of filling material at 2 mm from the dental cervix seems more advisable, promoting lower crown discoloration.