Flatsonic Ultrasonic Tip Optimizes the Removal of Remaining Filling Material in Flattened Root Canals: A Micro-computed Tomographic Analysis.

INTRODUCTION: The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of the XP-endo Finisher R (XPFR; FKG Dentaire, La Chaux-de-Fonds, Switzerland) or the Flatsonic ultrasonic tip (Helse Ultrasonic, Santa Rosa de Viterbo, SP, Brazil) in removing remaining filling material after the retreatment of flattened root canals using micro-computed tomographic imaging. METHODS: Twenty-four flattened distal root canals of mandibular molars with a buccolingual diameter 4 or more times larger than the mesiodistal diameter were prepared with Reciproc Blue (RB) R40 (VDW GmbH, Munich, Germany) and filled using the Tagger hybrid technique. All canals were retreated with RB R40, and apical enlargement was performed with RB R50 (VDW GmbH). The specimens were randomly distributed into 2 groups: XPFR or Flatsonic (n = 12). The percentage of remaining filling material after retreatment and centralization ability was evaluated. Data were submitted to Mann-Whitney, Wilcoxon, and unpaired t tests (α = 5%). RESULTS: Greater capacity to remove remaining filling material in the entire canal and the cervical and middle thirds was observed for the Flatsonic compared with the XPFR (P < .05). However, both supplementary cleaning techniques showed a similar percentage of residual filling material in the apical third (P > .05). No difference was observed in the centralization ability between the techniques (P > .05). CONCLUSIONS: The Flatsonic promotes greater removal of remaining filling material than the XPFR in the retreatment of flattened root canals. However, both supplementary cleaning approaches were similar in the apical third. The XPFR and Flatsonic were able to maintain root canal centralization.

Effect of radiopacifier and liquid in the physicochemical and biological properties of calcium silicate clinker Angelus: A laboratory investigation.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of radiopacifier calcium tungstate and manipulation with distilled water (DW) or liquid with additives (LA) on calcium silicate clinker Angelus (CL) properties, compared with MTA (Angelus, Brazil) and MTA Repair HP (MTAHP, Angelus, Brazil). The physicochemical properties, cellular viability and bioactivity were evaluated. ANOVA/Tukey and Bonferroni tests were performed (α = 0.05). There was no difference in material setting time (p > 0.05). MTA and MTAHP were similar (p > 0.05) and had greater radiopacity than CL + DW and CL + LA (p < 0.05). All experimental materials showed mass increase, alkalinisation capacity, besides biocompatibility and bioactivity at 3 and 7 days. The different liquids had no influence in the biological properties and bioactivity of the calcium silicate clinker Angelus. Calcium tungstate provided radiopacity, without changing the setting time, maintaining the mass increase and alkalinisation ability of the calcium silicate materials.

Biocompatibility, bioactive potential, porosity, and interface analysis calcium silicate repair cements in a dentin tube model.

OBJECTIVES: This study is to evaluate biocompatibility, bioactive potential, porosity, and dentin/material interface of Bio-C Repair (BIOC-R), MTA Repair HP (MTAHP), and Intermediate Restorative Material (IRM). MATERIALS AND METHODS: Dentin tubes were implanted into subcutaneous of rats for 7, 15, 30, and 60 days. Thickness of capsules, number of inflammatory cells (ICs), interleukin-6 (IL-6), osteocalcin (OCN), and von Kossa were evaluated. Porosity and material/dentin interface voids were also analyzed. Data were submitted to ANOVA and Tukey's tests (p < 0.05). RESULTS: IRM capsules were thicker and contained greater ICs and IL-6-immunopositive cells at 7 and 15 days. BIOC-R capsules exhibited higher thickness and ICs at 7 days and greater IL-6 at 7 and 15 days than MTAHP (p < 0.05). At 30 and 60 days, no significant difference was observed among the groups. OCN-immunopositive cells, von Kossa-positive, and birefringent structures were observed in BIOC-R and MTAHP. MTAHP exhibited higher porosity and interface voids (p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: BIOC-R, MTAHP, and IRM are biocompatible. Bioceramics materials demonstrate bioactive potential. MTAHP presented the highest porosity and presence of voids. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: BIOC-R and MTAHP have adequate biological properties. BIOC-R demonstrated lower porosity and presence of voids, which may represent better sealing for its clinical applications.

Physicochemical properties, cytotoxicity and bioactivity of a ready-to-use bioceramic repair material.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the physicochemical properties, cytotoxicity and bioactivity of a ready-to-use bioceramic material, Bio-C Repair (Angelus), in comparison with White MTA (Angelus) and Biodentine (Septodont). The physicochemical properties of setting time, radiopacity, pH, solubility, dimensional and volumetric changes were evaluated. Biocompatibility and bioactivity were assessed in Saos-2 osteoblast cell cultures by the MTT assay 3-(4,5-Dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide), Neutral Red (NR), Alizarin Red (ARS), and cell migration tests. Statistical analysis was performed by ANOVA, Tukey or Bonferroni tests (α = 0.05). Bio-C Repair had the longest setting time (p < 0.05), but radiopacity and solubility were accordance with the ISO 6876/2012 standards, besides linear expansion. Bio-C Repair and MTA had similar volumetric change (p > 0.05); lower than Biodentine (p < 0.05). All the materials evaluated had an alkaline pH. Bio-C Repair was cytocompatible and promoted mineralized nodule deposition in 21 days and cell migration in 3 days. In conclusion, Bio-C Repair had adequate radiopacity above 3mm Al, solubility less than 3%, dimensional expansion, and low volumetric change. In addition, Bio-C Repair promoted an alkaline pH and presented bioactivity and biocompatibility similar to MTA and Biodentine, showing potential for use as a repair material.

Physicochemical properties, cytotoxicity and bioactivity of a ready-to-use bioceramic repair material

Abstract The aim of this study was to evaluate the physicochemical properties, cytotoxicity and bioactivity of a ready-to-use bioceramic material, Bio-C Repair (Angelus), in comparison with White MTA (Angelus) and Biodentine (Septodont). The physicochemical properties of setting time, radiopacity, pH, solubility, dimensional and volumetric changes were evaluated. Biocompatibility and bioactivity were assessed in Saos-2 osteoblast cell cultures by the MTT assay 3-(4,5-Dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide), Neutral Red (NR), Alizarin Red (ARS), and cell migration tests. Statistical analysis was performed by ANOVA, Tukey or Bonferroni tests (α = 0.05). Bio-C Repair had the longest setting time (p < 0.05), but radiopacity and solubility were accordance with the ISO 6876/2012 standards, besides linear expansion. Bio-C Repair and MTA had similar volumetric change (p > 0.05); lower than Biodentine (p < 0.05). All the materials evaluated had an alkaline pH. Bio-C Repair was cytocompatible and promoted mineralized nodule deposition in 21 days and cell migration in 3 days. In conclusion, Bio-C Repair had adequate radiopacity above 3mm Al, solubility less than 3%, dimensional expansion, and low volumetric change. In addition, Bio-C Repair promoted an alkaline pH and presented bioactivity and biocompatibility similar to MTA and Biodentine, showing potential for use as a repair material.

Resumo O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar as propriedades físico-químicas, citotoxicidade e bioatividade de um novo material biocerâmico pronto para uso, Bio-C Repair (Angelus), em comparação com MTA Branco (Angelus) e Biodentine (Septodont). Foram avaliadas as propriedades físico-químicas de tempo de presa, radiopacidade, pH, solubilidade, alterações dimensionais e volumétricas. A biocompatibilidade, bioatividade e capacidade de reparo foram avaliadas em culturas de células de osteoblastos Saos-2 pelo ensaio MTT brometo de 3-(4,5-dimetiltiazol-2-il)-2,5-difeniltetrazólio), vermelho neutro (NR), vermelho de alizarina ( ARS) e testes de migração celular. A análise estatística foi realizada pelos testes ANOVA, Tukey ou Bonferroni (α = 0,05). Bio-C Repair apresentou o maior tempo de presa (p < 0,05), mas radiopacidade e solubilidade de acordo com as normas ISO 6876/2012, além de expansão linear. Bio-C Repair e MTA tiveram variação volumétrica semelhante (p > 0,05), menor que Biodentine (p < 0,05). Todos os materiais avaliados apresentaram pH alcalino. Bio-C Repair foi citocompatível, além de promover deposição de nódulos mineralizados em 21 dias e migração celular em 3 dias. Em conclusão, o Bio-C Repair apresentou radiopacidade adequada acima de 3mmAl, solubilidade menor que 3%, expansão dimensional e baixa perda volumétrica.. Além disso, o Bio-C Repair promoveu um pH alcalino e apresentou bioatividade e biocompatibilidade semelhantes ao MTA e Biodentine, mostrando potencial para uso como material reparador

How do imaging protocols affect the assessment of root-end fillings?

Objectives: This study investigated the impact of micro-computed tomography (micro-CT)-based voxel size on the analysis of material/dentin interface voids and thickness of different endodontic cements. Materials and Methods: Following root-end resection and apical preparation, maxillary premolars were filled with mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA), Biodentine, and intermediate restorative material (IRM) (n = 24). The samples were scanned using micro-CT (SkyScan 1272; Bruker) and the cement/dentin interface and thickness of materials were evaluated at voxel sizes of 5, 10, and 20 µm. Analysis of variance and the Tukey test were conducted, and the degree of agreement between different voxel sizes was evaluated using the Bland and Altman method (p < 0.05). Results: All materials showed an increase in thickness from 5 to 10 and 20 µm (p < 0.05). When evaluating the interface voids, materials were similar at 5 µm (p > 0.05), while at 10 and 20 µm Biodentine showed the lowest percentage of voids (p < 0.05). A decrease in the interface voids was observed for MTA and IRM at 20 µm, while Biodentine showed differences among all voxel sizes (p < 0.05). The Bland-Altman plots for comparisons among voxel sizes showed the largest deviations when comparing images between 5 and 20 µm. Conclusions: Voxel size had an impact on the micro-CT evaluation of thickness and interface voids of endodontic materials. All cements exhibited an increase in thickness and a decrease in the void percentage as the voxel size increased, especially when evaluating images at 20 µm.

Physicochemical and biological properties of new tricalcium silicate-based repair material doped with fluoride ions and zirconium oxide as radiopacifier.

This study evaluated the physicochemical and biological properties of novel reparative materials composed of pure tricalcium silicate (Ca3 SiO5 ), Ca3 SiO5 doped with fluoride ions (Ca3 SiO5 -F) and their association with ZrO2 (Ca3 SiO5 + ZrO2 , Ca3 SiO5 -F + ZrO2 ), in comparison with Biodentine (BIO). Setting time radiopacity, pH, solubility, and dimensional change were evaluated based on ISO 6876 Standard. Volumetric change and flow/filling were assessed by microcomputed tomography (micro-CT). Biological properties were evaluated by the MTT assay 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide), Neutral Red (NR), cell migration, alkaline phosphatase activity (ALP), and Alizarin Red Staining (ARS) assays. Statistical analysis was performed by ANOVA, Tukey, or Bonferroni tests (α = .05). Ca3 SiO5 -F + ZrO2 had higher radiopacity, shorter setting time, and lower solubility and volumetric loss than BIO (p < .05). Ca3 SiO5 -F + ZrO2 had flow and filling capacity similar to BIO (p > .05). All the cements evaluated had an alkaline pH. Ca3 SiO5 -F + ZrO2 demonstrated cell viability similar to negative control (p > .05), increase in ALP activity in 7 days, mineralized nodule production in 21 days and repair capacity according to cell migration. In conclusion, Ca3 SiO5 -F + ZrO2 had adequate setting time, radiopacity, solubility, and dimensional change. This material presented low volumetric change besides flow and filling capacity in micro-CT assessment. In addition, Ca3 SiO5 -F + ZrO2 was biocompatible and bioactive, suggesting its use as reparative material.

Physicochemical Properties, Cytocompatibility and Antibiofilm Activity of a New Calcium Silicate Sealer.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the physicochemical properties, cytocompatibility and antibiofilm activity of a new calcium silicate-based endodontic sealer, Sealer Plus BC (MK Life, Brazil), in comparison with TotalFill BC Sealer (FKG Dentaire SA, Switzerland) and AH Plus (Dentsply, Germany). Setting time and flow were evaluated based on ISO 6876 standard. The pH was evaluated after different periods, and radiopacity by radiographic analysis (mmAl). Solubility (% mass loss) and volumetric change (by micro-CT) were assessed after 30 days of immersion in distilled water. Cytocompatibility was assessed by methyltetrazolium (MTT) and neutral red (NR) assays, after exposure of Saos-2 cells to the sealer extract for 24 h. An additional analysis was performed by using MTT assay after 1, 3 and 7 days of exposure of Saos-2 to the sealers 1:8 dilution extracts. Antibiofilm activity against Enterococcus faecalis and/or Candida albicans was evaluated by crystal violet assay and modified direct contact test. The physicochemical properties were analyzed using ANOVA/Tukey tests; MTT and NR data were analyzed by ANOVA and Bonferroni tests; the antimicrobial tests were analyzed by Kruskal-Wallis and Dunn tests (α=0.05). Sealer Plus BC had proper setting time, radiopacity, flow and alkalization capacity. Sealer Plus BC was significantly more soluble than AH Plus (p<0.05) and presented volumetric change similar to AH Plus and TotalFill BC (p>0.05). Sealer Plus BC presented antibiofilm activity and no cytotoxic effect. In conclusion, although Sealer Plus BC had higher solubility, this sealer showed proper physicochemical properties, cytocompatibility, and antibiofilm activity.

Influence of voxel size on dentinal microcrack detection by micro-CT after root canal preparation.

The aim of this study was to assess the influence of micro-computed tomography (micro-CT) voxel size on dentinal microcrack detection after root canal preparation using rotary heat-treated nickel-titanium files. Curved mesial root canals (n = 24) of mandibular molars were prepared using ProDesign Logic 30/.05 (PDL) or HyFlex EDM 25/.08 (HEDM). The specimens were scanned by micro-CT at 5 µm voxel size before and after root canal preparation. The percentage of microcracks was evaluated in images at 5, 10 and 20 µm voxel size, by two examiners at two moments. The Kappa and McNemar tests (α = 0.05) were used. The percentage of dentinal microcracks was similar before and after PDL and HEDM preparations, at 10 and 20 µm (p > 0.05). HEDM showed a higher percentage of dentinal microcracks in the middle third at 5 µm after preparation (p < 0.05). The detection of dentinal microcracks before and after instrumentation using PDL was more accurate at 5 µm than at 20 µm, in all thirds (p < 0.05). Within the limitations of this ex vivo study, as expected, the results showed that different resolutions influence the micro-CT analysis of microcracks. The highest accuracy in detecting microcracks was observed for analyses performed at 5 µm voxel size. HyFlex EDM caused even more microcracks to develop in the middle third, detectable only by visualization of images made at 5 µm voxel size.

Physicochemical properties, cytocompatibility and antibiofilm activity of a new calcium silicate sealer

Abstract The aim of this study was to evaluate the physicochemical properties, cytocompatibility and antibiofilm activity of a new calcium silicate-based endodontic sealer, Sealer Plus BC (MK Life, Brazil), in comparison with TotalFill BC Sealer (FKG Dentaire SA, Switzerland) and AH Plus (Dentsply, Germany). Setting time and flow were evaluated based on ISO 6876 standard. The pH was evaluated after different periods, and radiopacity by radiographic analysis (mmAl). Solubility (% mass loss) and volumetric change (by micro-CT) were assessed after 30 days of immersion in distilled water. Cytocompatibility was assessed by methyltetrazolium (MTT) and neutral red (NR) assays, after exposure of Saos-2 cells to the sealer extract for 24 h. An additional analysis was performed by using MTT assay after 1, 3 and 7 days of exposure of Saos-2 to the sealers 1:8 dilution extracts. Antibiofilm activity against Enterococcus faecalis and/or Candida albicans was evaluated by crystal violet assay and modified direct contact test. The physicochemical properties were analyzed using ANOVA/Tukey tests; MTT and NR data were analyzed by ANOVA and Bonferroni tests; the antimicrobial tests were analyzed by Kruskal-Wallis and Dunn tests (α=0.05). Sealer Plus BC had proper setting time, radiopacity, flow and alkalization capacity. Sealer Plus BC was significantly more soluble than AH Plus (p<0.05) and presented volumetric change similar to AH Plus and TotalFill BC (p>0.05). Sealer Plus BC presented antibiofilm activity and no cytotoxic effect. In conclusion, although Sealer Plus BC had higher solubility, this sealer showed proper physicochemical properties, cytocompatibility, and antibiofilm activity.

Resumo O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar as propriedades físico-químicas, a citocompatibilidade e a atividade antibiofilme de um novo cimento endodôntico à base de silicato de cálcio, Sealer Plus BC (MK Life, Brasil), em comparação com TotalFill BC Sealer (FKG Dentaire SA, Suíça) e AH Plus (Dentsply, Alemanha). O tempo de presa e o escoamento foram avaliados com base nas normas ISO 6876. O pH foi avaliado após diferentes períodos, e a radiopacidade por análise radiográfica (mmAl). A solubilidade (% de perda de massa) e alteração volumétrica (por micro-CT) foram avaliadas após 30 dias de imersão em água destilada. Citocompatibilidade foi avaliada pelos ensaios metiltetrazólio (MTT) e vermelho neutro (NR), após exposição das células Saos-2 ao extrato de cimento por 24 horas. Análise adicional foi realizada através do ensaio MTT após 1, 3 e 7 dias de exposição das células Saos-2 aos extratos dos cimentos na diluição de 1:8. Atividade antibiofilme contra Enterococcus faecalis e/ou Candida albicans foi avaliada pelos ensaios cristal violeta e contato direto modificado. As propriedades físico-químicas foram analisadas utilizando os testes ANOVA e Tukey; MTT e NR foram analisados pelos testes ANOVA e Bonferroni; os ensaios antimicrobianos foram analisados pelos testes Kruskal-Wallis e Dunn (α=0.05). Sealer Plus BC apresentou tempo de presa, radiopacidade e escoamento adequados, além de capacidade de alcalinização. Sealer Plus BC foi significantemente mais solúvel que AH Plus (p<0.05) e apresentou alteração volumétrica similar à de AH Plus e TotalFill BC (p>0.05). Sealer Plus BC apresentou atividade antibiofilme, sem efeito citotóxico. Como conclusão, embora Sealer Plus BC apresente maior solubilidade, este cimento apresentou propriedades físico-químicas adequadas, citocompatibilidade e atividade antibiofilme.

Evaluation of curved root canals filled with a new bioceramic sealer: A microcomputed tomographic study using images with different voxel sizes and segmentation methods.

The aim of this study was to investigate the filling ability of a new premixed bioceramic sealer in comparison with an epoxy resin-based sealer in curved root canals using different segmentation methods and voxel sizes in micro-CT images. Twelve curved mesial roots of mandibular molars with two separated canals were selected. All root canals were prepared by using HyFlex EDM files size 25/.08 and filled by the single cone technique and Bio-C Sealer or AH Plus (n = 12). The samples were scanned by micro-CT at 5 µm. The images were analyzed at 5, 10, and 20 µm for the volumetric analysis of voids in filling. Visual image segmentation was performed by two examiners, and the automatic segmentation was accomplished for comparison. Radiopacity of the sealers was evaluated by radiographic analysis. Data were submitted to the two-way ANOVA and non-paired t tests at a significance level of 5%. AH Plus had the highest radiopacity (p < .05). Root canals filled with AH Plus or Bio-C had similar low percentage of voids (p > .05). There was no difference interobserver, which had similar results to those obtained with automatic segmentation for all voxel sizes evaluated (p > .05). Bio-C Sealer had appropriate filling ability. Visual and automatic segmentation can be applied to micro-CT images with voxel sizes from 5 to 20 µm to evaluate the filling of sealers with adequate radiopacity. Automatic segmentation should be used as a faster method.

Effect of Different Dimensions of Test Samples on the Volumetric Change Assessment Of Endodontic Materials.

New methodologies using micro-CT to evaluate solubility besides dimensional and morphological changes of endodontic materials are proposed. However, there is no standardization in the methods. The aim of this study was to assess the effect of different dimensions of test samples on volumetric change evaluation of different endodontic materials. AH Plus, FillCanal and Sealapex root canal sealers, Biodentine, IRM and MTA root-end filling cements were used in the tests. Samples of each material with a thickness of 1.5 mm and different diameters were manufactured: 6.3, 7.75, and 9.0 mm. The samples were scanned in micro-computed tomography (micro-CT) after setting and after 7 days of immersion in distilled water. The volumetric change was evaluated by means of the difference in the total volume of the specimens before and after immersion. Data were submitted to ANOVA and Tukey tests (p<0.05). The size of the samples did not affect the percentage of volumetric change of the materials (p>0.05). All sample sizes had greater volume loss for Sealapex among the sealers and Biodentine for the cements (p<0.05). In conclusion, Biodentine and Sealapex had the highest volume loss after immersion. Samples with 1.5 mm thickness, and diameters ranging between 6.3 and 9.0 mm can be used to assess the stability of endodontic materials using micro-CT without affecting the percentage of volumetric change.

Influência da agulha e fluxo de irrigação na limpeza do canal radicular e extrusão apical de irrigante: análise em micro-CT / Influence of needle and irrigation flow rate on root canal cleaning and apical extrusion of irrigant: Micro-CT analysis

Introdução: O tipo de agulha e fluxo de irrigação é importante para a limpeza adequada no terço apical do canal radicular. Objetivo: Avaliar a influência do tipo de agulha e fluxo de irrigação na limpeza do canal radicular e canais laterais simulados e na extrusão apical do irrigante. Métodos: Trinta e dois dentes de resina foram utiliza- dos. Após a instrumentação do canal radicular, foram feitos quatro canais laterais a 2 e 7 mm do ápice. Os canais radiculares foram preenchidos com solução de contraste. Os canais foram irrigados com dois tipos de agulha, 29G e 31G, com diferentes designs (abertura lateral e apical) e dois fluxos (2 ou 5 mL/min), a 1 mm aquém do comprimento de trabalho. O volume da solução de contraste nos canais principal e laterais após irrigação e a extrusão apical do irrigante (mm3 ) foi avaliado por micro-CT, em comparação com a análise inicial. Os dados em porcentagem foram analisados pelos testes ANOVA e Tukey (α=0,05). Resultados: não houve diferença entre os protocolos de irrigação para limpeza da solução de contraste. Maior volume de extrusão apical com agulha 29G com abertura apical e 5 mL/min foi observado, em comparação ao mesmo tipo de agulha e 2 mL/min (p<0,05). Conclusão: Todos os protocolos de irrigação foram associados à limpeza dos canais radiculares. Maior extrusão apical foi observada com agulha 29G ­ abertura apical com maior fluxo de irrigação (5 mL/min). Implicações clínicas: Irrigação endodôntica com agulha com abertura apical e maior fluxo da solução pode favorecer a extrusão dos irrigantes para os tecidos periapicais (AU).

Introduction: needle and irrigation flow rate are important for proper cleaning of the root canal. Aim: to evaluate the influence of type of needle and irrigation flow rate on cleaning of root canal and simulated lateral canals and the apical extrusion of irrigant. Methods: Thirty-two resin teeth were used. After root canal instrumentation, four lateral canals were made at 2 and 7 mm from the apex. Root canals were filled with contrast solution. The root canals were irrigated with two types of needle, 29G and 31G, with different designs (side and apical opening) and two flow rates (2 or 5 mL/min), at 1 mm short of the working length. The volume of the contrast solution in the main and lateral canals after irrigation and apical extrusion of the irrigant (mm3) were evaluated by Micro-CT, in comparison with the initial analysis. Data in percentage were analyzed by ANOVA and Tukeys tests (α = 0.05). Results: no difference among the irrigation protocols for contrast solution cleaning was observed. Higher volume of apical extrusion using needle 29G-apical opening and 5 mL/min in comparison with the same type of needle and 2 mL/min was observed (p < 0.05). Conclusion: all irrigation protocols were associated with root canals cleaning. Greater apical extrusion was observed for needle 29G-apical opening with higher irrigation flow rate (5 mL/min). Clinical implications: endodontic irrigation using a needle with apical opening and higher flow rate of solution may favor extrusion of irrigant to the periapical tissues (AU).

A micro-computed tomographic study using a novel test model to assess the filling ability and volumetric changes of bioceramic root repair materials.

OBJECTIVES: New premixed bioceramic root repair materials require moisture for setting. Using micro-computed tomography (micro-CT), this study evaluated the filling ability and volumetric changes of calcium silicate-based repair materials (mineral trioxide aggregate repair high-plasticity [MTA HP] and Bio-C Repair, Angelus), in comparison with a zinc oxide and eugenol-based material (intermediate restorative material [IRM]; Dentsply DeTrey). MATERIALS AND METHODS: Gypsum models with cavities 3 mm deep and 1 mm in diameter were manufactured and scanned using micro-CT (SkyScan 1272. Bruker). The cavities were filled with the cements and scanned again to evaluate their filling capacity. Another scan was performed after immersing the samples in distilled water for 7 days to assess the volumetric changes of the cements. The statistical significance of differences in the data was evaluated using analysis of variance and the Tukey test with a 5% significance level. RESULTS: Bio-C Repair had a greater filling ability than MTA HP (p < 0.05). IRM was similar to Bio-C and MTA HP (p > 0.05). MTA HP presented the largest volumetric change (p < 0.05), showing more volume loss than Bio-C and IRM, which were similar (p > 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Bio-C Repair is a new endodontic material with excellent filling capacity and low volumetric change. The gypsum model proposed for evaluating filling ability and volumetric changes by micro-CT had appropriate and reproducible results. This model may enhance the physicochemical evaluation of premixed bioceramic materials, which need moisture for setting.

Safety and Effectiveness of Additional Apical Preparation using a Rotary Heat-treated Nickel-Titanium file with Larger Diameter and Minimum Taper in Retreatment of Curved Root Canals.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of additional apical preparation using the ProDesign Logic (PDL) 50/.01 rotary heat-treated nickel-titanium (NiTi) file with a larger diameter and minimal taper for retreatment of curved root canals. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Mesial curved root canals of 12 mandibular molars were prepared using PDL 25/.06 and filled using the continuous wave of condensation technique and AH Plus sealer. After retreatment using ProDesign S (PDS) 25/.08, PDL 25/.06 and PDL 35/05, a complementary procedure was performed with PDL 50/.01. Microcomputed tomography (micro-CT) scanning was performed before and after retreatment procedures. The cyclic fatigue resistance of unused PDS 25/.08, PDL 25/.06, PDL 35/.05 and PDL 50/.01 instruments (n = 12) was evaluated in a stainless-steel device. STATISTICAL ANALYSIS: Data on the volumes of the root canals and the remaining filling materials were submitted to the paired t-test. Cyclic fatigue resistance data was submitted to one-way ANOVA and Tukey's tests (α = 0.05). RESULTS: Use of PDL 50/.01 decreased the remaining filling materials in the apical third (p < 0.05). The root canal volume was similar in the cervical and middle thirds before and after preparation using PDL 50/.01 (p > 0.05). PDL 50/.01 presented the highest cyclic fatigue resistance (p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Use of the PDL 50/.01 instrument as an additional apical preparation for retreatment of curved root canals improved filling material removal in the apical third, while maintaining the dentin in the cervical and middle thirds. In addition, PDL 50/.01 presented high-flexural resistance.

Effect of obturation technique using a new bioceramic sealer on the presence of voids in flattened root canals.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the filling ability of a new ready-to-use calcium silicate-based sealer using thermoplastic or single-cone technique in flattened root canals. Twenty-four flattened distal canals of mandibular molars with a buccolingual diameter 4 or more times larger than the mesiodistal diameter were selected. The root canals were prepared and filled (n = 12), according to the following techniques: thermoplastic or single-cone technique using Bio-C Sealer. The teeth were scanned using Skycan 1176 micro-computed tomography (micro-CT) - voxel size 8.74 µm, before and after filling the root canal. The percentage of voids in the filled root canals was evaluated, and the data were statistically analyzed using the unpaired t-test (α = 0.05). The root canals filled using the thermoplastic technique created a smaller percentage of voids in the cervical/middle thirds than those filled using the single-cone technique (p < 0.05). There was no difference in the percentage of voids using either technique in the apical third (p > 0.05). The flattened root canals in the cervical/middle thirds were better filled using the ready-to-use calcium silicate-based sealer associated to the thermoplastic technique, compared with the single-cone technique. In the apical third, the techniques showed similar filling ability.

Physicochemical, biological, and antibacterial evaluation of tricalcium silicate-based reparative cements with different radiopacifiers.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate tricalcium silicate-based (TCS) experimental materials, associated with zirconium oxide (ZrO2), calcium tungstate (CaWO4) or niobium oxide (Nb2O5) radiopacifiers, in comparison with MTA Repair HP (Angelus). METHODS: Physicochemical tests: setting time, radiopacity, pH and solubility. In vitro assays: cytotoxicity: MTT and Neutral Red - NR; cell bioactivity: alkaline phosphatase activity (ALP), Alzarin red staining (ARS) and real time PCR (qPCR). Antibacterial activity: direct contact on Enterococcus faecalis in the planktonic form. Physicochemical and ARS data were submitted to ANOVA/Tukey tests; antibacterial activity, to Kruskall-Wallis and Dunn tests; MTT, NR, ALP and qPCR were analyzed by ANOVA/Bonferroni tests (α = 0.05). RESULTS: TCS + CaWO4 presented the longest setting time and MTA HP the shortest. Except for TCS, all the materials presented radiopacity above 3 mmAl. The cements had alkaline pH, antibacterial activity, low solubility and no cytotoxic effects. The highest ALP activity occurred in 14 days, especially to TCS, TCS + ZrO2 and TCS + CaWO4. TCS + ZrO2, TCS + Nb2O5 and MTAHP had higher mineralized nodule formation than those of the negative control (NC). After 7 days, there was no difference in mRNA expression for ALP, when compared to NC. However, after 14 days there was no overexpressed ALP mRNA, especially TCS + Nb2O5, in relation to the CN. All the materials presented antimicrobial action. SIGNIFICANCE: The pure tricalcium silicate associated with ZrO2, CaWO4 or Nb2O5 had appropriate physicochemical properties, antibacterial activity, cytocompatibility and induced mineralization in Saos-2, indicating their use as reparative materials.

Influence of voxel size on dentinal microcrack detection by micro-CT after root canal preparation

Abstract The aim of this study was to assess the influence of micro-computed tomography (micro-CT) voxel size on dentinal microcrack detection after root canal preparation using rotary heat-treated nickel-titanium files. Curved mesial root canals (n = 24) of mandibular molars were prepared using ProDesign Logic 30/.05 (PDL) or HyFlex EDM 25/.08 (HEDM). The specimens were scanned by micro-CT at 5 μm voxel size before and after root canal preparation. The percentage of microcracks was evaluated in images at 5, 10 and 20 μm voxel size, by two examiners at two moments. The Kappa and McNemar tests (α = 0.05) were used. The percentage of dentinal microcracks was similar before and after PDL and HEDM preparations, at 10 and 20 μm (p > 0.05). HEDM showed a higher percentage of dentinal microcracks in the middle third at 5 μm after preparation (p < 0.05). The detection of dentinal microcracks before and after instrumentation using PDL was more accurate at 5 μm than at 20 μm, in all thirds (p < 0.05). Within the limitations of this ex vivo study, as expected, the results showed that different resolutions influence the micro-CT analysis of microcracks. The highest accuracy in detecting microcracks was observed for analyses performed at 5 μm voxel size. HyFlex EDM caused even more microcracks to develop in the middle third, detectable only by visualization of images made at 5 μm voxel size.

Influence of voxel size on micro-CT analysis of debris after root canal preparation.

The aim of this study was to assess the influence of micro-computed tomography (micro-CT) voxel size on the evaluation of debris accumulation after passive ultrasonic irrigation (PUI) in curved root canals prepared with rotary nickel-titanium files. Mesial root canals (n = 24) of mandibular molars with curvature between 25° and 35° were prepared using ProDesign Logic 30/.05 (PDL) or HyFlex EDM 25/.08 (HEDM). PUI was performed after root canal preparation of all root canals. The specimens were scanned using high-resolution (5 µm voxel size) micro-CT imaging before and after experimental procedures. The percentage of debris was analyzed in the middle and apical thirds using images with 5, 10 and 20 µm voxel sizes. Data were compared using unpaired and paired Student's t-test, ANOVA and Tukey's statistical tests (α = 0.05). There were no differences among the debris analyses performed at different voxel sizes (5, 10 and 20 µm) (p > 0.05). The percentage of debris was similar between the root canals prepared by PDL and HEDM before and after PUI (p > 0.05). In both groups, the percentage of debris decreased in the middle third after PUI (p < 0.05). Within the limitations of this ex vivo study, it can be concluded that the voxel sizes evaluated did not have a significant impact on the analysis of accumulated debris. However, the results showed a tendency for detection of more debris in the analysis performed using a lower voxel size. PUI decreased the debris accumulation in the middle third of curved root canals.

Filling Ability and Flow of Root Canal Sealers: A Micro-Computed Tomographic Study.

This study evaluated by micro-computed tomography (µCT) the filling ability in curved root canals, besides the flow of AH Plus (AHP) and Neo MTA Plus (NMTAP) sealers using different methodologies. Mandibular molars mesial roots with two root canals and degree of curvature between 20° and 40° were selected. The specimens were prepared with the ProDesign R system up to size 35.05 and were filled with the sealers by a continuous wave of condensation technique, Thermo Pack II (n=12). The teeth were scanned using µCT after root canal preparation and obturation. The volumetric percentage of filling material and voids were calculated. Flow was evaluated based on ISO 6876/2012 (n=10). Flow and filling were also evaluated in µCT using a glass plate with a central cavity and four grooves from the central cavity (n=6). Flow was linearly calculated into the grooves. The central cavity filling (CCF) and lateral cavity filling (LCF) were calculated in mm³. Data were submitted to non-paired t test with a significance threshold at 5%. The percentage of filling and voids between the root canals filled with AHP or NMTAP was similar (p>0.05). NMTAP presented the lowest flow in conventional test (p<0.05). Using µCT, sealers had similar CCF, LCF and linear flow (p>0.05). In conclusion, NMTAP and AHP had similar filling ability in curved mesial root canals of mandibular molars without presence of isthmus. Although AHP presented better flow than NMTAP using ISO methodology, there was no difference between these materials regarding volumetric filling when evaluated by µCT.