Influence of resin-based adhesive root canal fillings on the resistance to fracture of endodontically treated roots: an in vitro preliminary study.

Objective: The aim was to investigate the root reinforcing capability of the resin-based RealSeal.

Study Design: In two groups (n=36) canals were instrumented with nickel-titanium rotary GTfiles or with hand K-files. Twelve teeth from each group were obturated with lateral compaction using either gutta-percha and AHPlus or RealSeal. The canals of twelve teeth of both groups were instrumented but not filled. Group 3 (n=12) acted as uninstrumented controls. The force required to fracture the roots was measured. ANOVA and Scheffé test were used for statistical analysis.

Results: The intact roots were significantly stronger than both groups with instrumented and unobturated roots (P<.05). Between the roots of both groups obturated with RealSeal and the intact roots there were no significant differences (P>.05). The roots obturated with RealSeal were significantly stronger than those obturated with gutta-percha and AHPlus (P<.05).

Conclusions: An obturation with RealSeal significantly increases the fracture resistance of instrumented roots.