The influence of root canal shape on the sealing ability of two root canal sealers.

Aim: To evaluate the influence of root canal form on the sealing ability of two root canal sealers.

Methodology: Twenty radiographically confirmed straight and 20 curved root canals were prepared with a stepback hand filing technique. Root canal aberrations created during preparation were determined by the use of double exposure radiographic technique. The prepared canals were filled with lateral condensation of gutta-percha and one or other of two root canal sealers (Pulp Canal Sealer and Sealapex). Leakage along the apical 10 mm of roots was measured with a fluid transport model at 1, 3, 6, 9 and 12-month intervals.

Results: There were no statistically significant differences between straight and curved root canals (P > 0.05) for prevalence of root canal transportation. The prevalence of apical transportation was 80% in the straight and 85% in the curved root canals. A complete seal was more frequently observed in straight canals compared with curved canals. Utilizing the pi* index, analysis showed the filling with Sealapex allowed more leakage than Pulp Canal Sealer at 1 year.

Conclusion: Under the conditions of the study, root canal form influenced short-term sealing ability. In the long-term the seal was affected by the sealer rather than root canal form.