MTA-Fillapex sealer penetration following activation with various irrigation protocols: a scanning electron...

Area of Science:

• Endodontics
• Dental Materials Science

Background:

• MTA-fillapex is a widely used root canal sealer.
• Effective sealing of dentinal tubules is crucial for endodontic treatment success.
• The influence of irrigation activation methods on sealer penetration requires further investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the penetration depth of MTA-fillapex sealer into dentinal tubules.
• To evaluate the efficacy of different irrigation activation procedures on sealer penetration.

Main Methods:

• This in-vitro study utilized 40 mandibular premolars, divided into four groups: control, ultrasonic activation, XP-Endo Finisher, and 980-diode laser activation.
• Teeth were obturated with MTA-fillapex using a single-cone technique.
• Sealer penetration was assessed using scanning electron microscopy at 2, 5, and 8 mm from the apex.

Main Results:

• 980 nm laser activation resulted in significantly higher MTA-fillapex sealer penetration (p < 0.001).
• No significant difference in penetration was observed between ultrasonic and XP-Endo Finisher at 2 and 5 mm depths (p > 0.05).
• XP-Endo Finisher showed significantly greater penetration than ultrasonic activation at 8 mm (p > 0.001). Penetration increased significantly with depth from apex (p < 0.001).

Conclusions:

• Irrigation activation protocols significantly impact MTA-fillapex sealer penetration.
• 980 nm laser irrigation demonstrates potential for superior sealing ability in the apical third of root canals.