Effect of Root Canal Drying Methods on Bioceramic Sealer Bond Strength

Area of Science:

• Endodontics
• Dental Materials Science

Background:

• Bioceramic sealers are widely used in endodontic treatments.
• Optimizing sealer adhesion is crucial for long-term treatment success.
• Intracanal moisture significantly impacts sealer performance.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effect of different intracanal drying methods on the push-out bond strength of a bioceramic sealer.
• To assess the interfacial adaptation of the bioceramic sealer to dentin after various drying protocols.

Main Methods:

• Extracted human incisors were prepared and irrigated.
• Canals were dried using paper points, microsuction, or 70% isopropyl alcohol.
• Root slices were tested for push-out bond strength and analyzed using SEM.

Main Results:

• Isopropyl alcohol and paper point drying yielded significantly higher bond strengths (3.23 MPa and 2.97 MPa, respectively) than microsuction (1.23 MPa).
• Apical root sections exhibited greater bond strength than coronal and middle sections.
• SEM analysis showed improved interfacial adaptation with fewer gaps using alcohol and paper point drying.

Conclusions:

• Intracanal drying method critically influences bioceramic sealer bond strength and adaptation.
• Paper point drying and isopropyl alcohol are superior to microsuction for enhancing bioceramic sealer performance.
• These findings support the use of paper points or alcohol for optimal root canal obturation with bioceramic sealers.