This study investigates the effect of ultrasonic activation on porosity formation in root canal fillings using two types of calcium silicate-based sealers.
A total of forty single-rooted premolars were decoronated and adjusted to a standardized length. The canals were shaped using the #F3 ProTaper Ultimate file system. The teeth were randomly divided into two groups for single-cone obturation, utilizing either Angelus Bio-C Sealer (n = 20) or TotalFill BC Sealer (n = 20). Each group was further subdivided into two subgroups: one with ultrasonic activation and one without. In the ultrasonic activation groups, the gutta-percha (GP) cone was briefly contacted by an ultrasonic tip. Post-obturation, a micro-CT scan was performed to analyze differences in porosity, interfacial gaps, and internal voids using statistical methods.
The findings showed that the TotalFill BC Sealer with ultrasonic activation had the highest mean total porosity, while the Angelus Bio-C Sealer without ultrasonic activation had the lowest level of porosity. However, this difference was not statistically significant. Thus, no significant distinctions in total porosity were found between the two sealers, irrespective of ultrasonic activation. Furthermore, interfacial gaps comprised a larger proportion of the total porosity compared to internal voids, which were verified across all study groups. The analysis also indicated significant variability in total porosity distribution among different root levels, with the cervical third exhibiting the greatest porosity, and the middle third displaying the least.
Ultimately, the study concluded that although ultrasonic activation did not result in significant differences in total porosity between the two types of sealers, interfacial gaps predominantly contributed to the overall porosity. The distribution of voids varied significantly across various levels of the root canal, emphasizing the importance of ultrasonic activation in influencing void formation during root canal obturation.
Achieving a complete and uniform fill of the root canal system is essential to avoid voids that can lead to treatment failure. The study of different obturation techniques and the materials used for root filling is crucial, as the presence of voids can create pathways for bacterial leakage, which compromises the seal and impacts long-term success. The single-cone obturation technique employing calcium silicate sealers has been recommended over traditional methods reliant on resin-based materials due to its overall effectiveness in achieving suitable fills.
The Institutional Review Board (IRB) of Riyadh Elm University reviewed and approved the study, allowing for the ethical evaluation of the effects of ultrasonic activation on root canal filling quality.
A sample size of forty teeth was chosen based on prior studies indicating the relevant statistical measures required to detect significant differences in void formation across the experimental groups.
Teeth selected for the study were required to show no signs of previous endodontic treatment and must qualify under strict criteria to ensure uniformity in root canal anatomy, specifically being classified as Vertucci Type I.
The samples were categorized respectively, ensuring a balanced distribution of experimental conditions between the various sealers utilized.
Each tooth was meticulously prepared to maintain aseptic conditions, followed by disinfection protocols to ensure validity during the obturation process. Following standardized canal shaping and cleansing, the ultrasonic activation methodology was applied during the obturation to verify its effect on the quality and completeness of the root canal filling.
The obturation process involved consistent application of both the sealer and GP cone, with ultrasonic activation performed using a specific device designed for dental applications. Following activation, the full working length was carefully confirmed, adhering to the specified protocols to guarantee optimal outcomes.