Dentinal tubule penetration of a silicone-based endodontic sealer following N-acetyl cysteine intracanal medicament removal using ultrasonic agitation and laser activated irrigation - An study.

CONTEXT

The removal of intracanal medicament is essential for sealer penetration and the success of endodontic therapy.

AIMS

To evaluate and compare the dentinal tubule penetration of a silicone-based endodontic sealer following N-acetyl cysteine (NAC) intracanal medicament removal using ultrasonic agitation and laser-activated irrigation.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Eighty-one extracted single-rooted mandibular premolars were decoronated and prepared with ProTaper Universal rotary files up to MAF F3. To prepare medicament, NAC powder was mixed with propylene glycol in the ratio of 1:1, placed using a size #30 Lentulospiral, and specimens stored in an incubator for 14 days. The specimens were then instrumented with #30 Hedström and divided into three groups according to final irrigant activation techniques: Group I: Diode laser activation, Group II: Passive Ultrasonic agitation, Group III: No agitation (positive control). Canals were obturated with GuttaFlow bioseal sealer mixed with 0.1% Rhodamine B dye and gutta-percha cones and incubated for 7 days. The specimens were sectioned horizontally to obtain 1 mm thick sections from 2, 5, and 8 mm from the apex. Sections were examined under Confocal Laser Scanning Microscope to measure the depth of sealer penetration (in µm).

STATISTICAL ANALYSIS

One-way analysis of variance and Tukeys multiple test.

RESULTS

The highest mean depth of penetration of 728.52 µm was seen with Group I, followed by Group II and least was seen in Group III.

CONCLUSIONS

Diode laser activation group was most effective in the removal of NAC intracanal medicament from all the three regions of the root canal.