Dentinal tubule penetration of a bioceramic sealer after different final irrigants: SEM and CLSM study

The extent of bioceramic sealer penetration into dentinal tubules following root canal obturation remains insufficiently validated using combined analyses on the same sample with scanning electron microscopy, confocal laser scanning microscopy and ion nano-complex evaluation. Therefore, it is of interest to investigate the extent of penetration of a bioceramic sealer into dentinal tubules after the use of various final irrigants and evaluated ion nano-complex formation. Mandibular incisor teeth were instrumented, divided into four groups based on the final irrigation protocol and obturated with gutta-percha and a bioceramic sealer tagged with a fluorescent dye (Fluo-3), followed by evaluation using confocal laser scanning microscopy and scanning electron microscopy with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy. Although statistical analysis did not reveal significant differences among the groups, Twin Kleen demonstrated superior performance in multiple comparisons. The HEBP component of Twin Kleen, due to its compatibility with sodium hypochlorite and its ability to reduce debris accumulation and smear layer formation, may contribute to enhanced sealer penetration.