Evaluation of Physicochemical Properties of a New Root Canal Sealer.

INTRODUCTION: The aim of this study was to evaluate some of the physicochemical properties of a new root canal sealer. METHODS: The sealers tested were Sealer Plus compared with AH Plus. For the radiopacity, flow, solubility, and fabrication of test specimens relative to setting times, the American National Standards Institute/American Dental Association No. 57 (2000) and International Organization for Standardization 6876 (2012) specifications were followed. To measure the initial and final setting times, the ASTM C266/2008 standard was used. pH was evaluated in the time intervals of 3, 24, 72, and 168 hours. Statistical tests were applied to the results obtained at a level of significance of 5%. RESULTS: The results demonstrated that the Sealer Plus sealer showed a lower radiopacity value than AH Plus sealer (P < .05); however, this was higher than the minimum value recommended by the specifications (ie, 3 mm Al). Relative to flow, the value for Sealer Plus was 19.19 mm and for AH Plus, 19.81 mm (P > .05). Sealer Plus presented initial and final setting times of 138 minutes and 210 minutes, respectively, whereas the values for AH Plus were 437 minutes and 849 minutes, respectively (P < .05). Relative to solubility, Sealer Plus presented 0.21% and AH Plus, 0.27% (P > .05). None of the sealers showed a significant increase in pH (P > .05). CONCLUSIONS: Sealer Plus sealer presented physicochemical properties in accordance with American National Standards Institute/American Dental Association (2000) No. 57 and International Organization for Standardization 6876 (2012) specifications.

Rat subcutaneous tissue response to calcium silicate containing different arsenic concentrations.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the response of rat subcutaneous tissue in implanted polyethylene tubes that were filled with GMTA Angelus and Portland cements containing different arsenic concentrations. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Atomic absorption spectrophotometry was utilized to obtain the values of the arsenic concentration in the materials. Thirty-six rats were divided into 3 groups of 12 animals for each experimental period. Each animal received two implants of polyethylene tubes filled with different test cements and the lateral of the tubes was used as a control group. After 15, 30 and 60 days of implantation, the animals were killed and the specimens were prepared for descriptive and morphometric analysis considering: inflammatory cells, collagen fibers, fibroblasts, blood vessels and other components. The results were analyzed utilizing the Kuskal-Wallis test and the Dunn's Multiple test for comparison (p<0.05). RESULTS: The materials showed, according to atomic absorption spectrophotometry, the following doses of arsenic: GMTA Angelus: 5.01 mg/kg, WPC Irajazinho: 0.69 mg/kg, GPC Minetti: 18.46 mg/kg and GPC Votoran: 10.76 mg/kg. In a 60-day periods, all specimens displayed a neoformation of connective tissue with a structure of fibrocellular aspect (capsule). Control groups and MTA Angelus produced the lower amount of inflammatory reaction and GPC Minetti, the highest reaction. CONCLUSIONS: There was no direct relationship between the concentration of arsenic present in the composition of the materials and the intensity of the inflammatory reactions. Higher values, as 18.46 mg/kg of arsenic in the cement, produce characteristics of severe inflammation reaction at the 60-day period. The best results were found in MTA angelus.

A new improved protocol for in vitro intratubular dentinal bacterial contamination for antimicrobial endodontic tests: standardization and validation by confocal laser scanning microscopy.

OBJECTIVES: To compare three methods of intratubular contamination that simulate endodontic infections using confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM). MATERIAL AND METHODS: Two pre-existing models of dentinal contamination were used to induce intratubular infection (groups A and B). These methods were modified in an attempt to improve the model (group C). Among the modifications it may be included: specimen contamination for five days, ultrasonic bath with BHI broth after specimen sterilization, use of E. faecalisduring the exponential growth phase, greater concentration of inoculum, and two cycles of centrifugation on alternate days with changes of culture media. All specimens were longitudinally sectioned and stained with of LIVE/DEAD for 20 min. Specimens were assessed using CLSM, which provided images of the depth of viable bacterial proliferation inside the dentinal tubules. Additionally, three examiners used scores to classify the CLSM images according to the following parameters: homogeneity, density, and depth of the bacterial contamination inside the dentinal tubules. Kruskal-Wallis and Dunn's tests were used to evaluate the live and dead cells rates, and the scores obtained. RESULTS: The contamination scores revealed higher contamination levels in group C when compared with groups A and B (p<0.05). No differences were observed between group A and B (p>0.05). The volume of live cells in group C was higher than in groups A and B (p<0.05). CONCLUSION: The new protocol for intratubular infection resulted in high and uniform patterns of bacterial contamination and higher cell viability in all specimens when compared with the current methods.

Apical adaptation, sealing ability and push-out bond strength of five root-end filling materials.

This study compared the fluid filtration, adaptation to the root canal walls, and the push-out bond strength of two resin-based sealers and three calcium silicate-based retrograde filling materials. Fifty maxillary canines were shaped using manual instruments and the apical portion was sectioned. Retrograde cavities of 3-mm depth were prepared. The specimens were divided into five groups (n = 10): Sealer 26 (S26); MBPc (experimental); MTA; Portland cement with 20% zirconium oxide (PC/ZO), and Portland cement with 20% calcium tungstate (PC/CT). The fluid filtration was measured at 7 and 15 days. To evaluate the interfacial adaptation, sections of the teeth, 1 and 2 mm from the apex, were prepared and the percentage of gaps was calculated. The push-out bond strength at 2 mm from the apex was evaluated. Statistical analysis was performed using the ANOVA/Tukey's test (p < 0.05). At 7 and 15 days (p = 0.0048, p = 0.006), the PC/CT group showed higher fluid filtration values when compared to other groups. At 1 mm from the apex, no statistical differences in the adaptation were found among the cements (p = 0.44). At 2 mm from the apex, the PC/ZO group presented statistically lower percentage of gaps than S26, MBPc, and MTA (p = 0.0007). The MBPc group showed higher push-out bond strength than other cements evaluated (p = 0.0008). The fluid filtration and interfacial adaptation of the calcium silicate-based cements were similar to those of the resin-based cements. The resinous cement MBPc showed superior push-out bond strength.

Microscopic analysis of the quality of obturation and physical properties of MTA Fillapex.

This study analyzed the quality of obturation and physical properties of MTA Fillapex and AH Plus sealer. A sample of 30 human maxillary central incisors were instrumented with Protaper until a F5 (50/05) file. Both sealers were mixed with Rhodamine-B dye to allow visualization on a confocal laser-scanning microscope (CLSM). Next, the canals were filled using the single cone technique. After setting, all samples were sectioned at 2, 4, and 6 mm from the apex. CLSM was used to analyze the gaps and sealer penetration into the dentinal tubules. All samples were scanned 10 µm below the dentin surface and images were recorded at 100× magnification using the fluorescent mode. Additionally, the solubility, flowability and setting time of the sealers were evaluated. All the measured quantities of the examined materials were evaluated for significant differences by means of statistical analysis. The CLSM analysis of the MTA Fillapex showed the highest percentage of gaps at all sections (P = 0.0001). Physical tests revealed adequate properties for both sealers except for a higher solubility of the MTA Fillapex (P = 0.0001). The MTA Fillapex presented flowability and intratubular penetration similar to the AH Plus. Nevertheless, the MTA Fillapex sealer presented a higher solubility and considerable quantity of gaps between the sealer/dentin interface in relation to the AH Plus sealer. Clinicians must take into consideration, the quality of endodontic sealers as it is essential in the outcome of the root canal filling.

Biocompatibility and setting time of CPM-MTA and white Portland cement clinker with or without calcium sulfate.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the biocompatibility and the setting time of Portland cement clinker with or without 2% or 5% calcium sulfate and MTA-CPM. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Twenty-four mice (Rattus norvegicus) received subcutaneously polyethylene tubes filled with Portland cement clinker with or without 2% or 5% calcium sulfate and MTA. After 15, 30 and 60 days of implantation, the animals were killed and specimens were prepared for microscopic analysis. For evaluation of the setting time, each material was analyzed using Gilmore needles weighing 113.5 g and 456.5 g, according to the ASTM specification Number C266-08 guideline. Data were analyzed by ANOVA and Tukey's test for setting time and Kruskal-Wallis and Dunn test for biocompatibility at 5% significance level. RESULTS: Histologic observation showed no statistically significant difference of biocompatibility (p>0.05) among the materials in the subcutaneous tissues. For the setting time, clinker without calcium sulfate showed the shortest initial and final setting times (6.18 s/21.48 s), followed by clinker with 2% calcium sulfate (9.22 s/25.33 s), clinker with 5% calcium sulfate (10.06 s/42.46 s) and MTA (15.01 s/42.46 s). CONCLUSIONS: All the tested materials showed biocompatibility and the calcium sulfate absence shortened the initial and final setting times of the white Portland cement clinker.

In vivo accuracy of conventional and digital radiographic methods in confirming root canal working length determination by Root ZX.

OBJECTIVES: To compare, in vivo, the accuracy of conventional and digital radiographic methods in determining root canal working length. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Twenty-five maxillary incisor or canine teeth from 22 patients were used in this study. Considering the preoperative radiographs as the baseline, a 25 K file was inserted into the root canal to the point where the Root ZX electronic apex locator indicated the APEX measurement in the screen. From this measurement, 1 mm was subtracted for positioning the file. The radiographic measurements were made using a digital sensor (Digora 1.51) or conventional type-E films, size 2, following the paralleling technique, to determine the distance of the file tip and the radiographic apex. RESULTS: The Student "t" test indicated mean distances of 1.11 mm to conventional and 1.20 mm for the digital method and indicated a significant statistical difference (p<0.05). CONCLUSIONS: The conventional radiographic method was found to be superior to the digital one in determining the working length of the root canal.

Influence of root canal sealer on the radiographic appearance of filling voids in maxillary single-rooted teeth.

OBJECTIVE: This study compared the influence of three epoxy resin-based sealers with distinct radiopacities on the observers' ability to detect root canal filling voids during radiographic analysis. MATERIAL AND METHODS: The root canals of 48 extracted maxillary canines were prepared and divided into three groups. Each group was laterally condensed with one sealer (AH Plus®, Acroseal® or a non-radiopaque sealer), and a longitudinal void was simulated in half of the specimens from each group (n=8). Buccolingual radiographs were obtained and randomly interpreted for voids by a radiologist and an endodontist in a blinded fashion. Teeth were cut and inspected under a microscope to confirm the position of void. Differences in sensitivity and specificity between groups and examiners were compared using the Fisher's Exact and McNemar tests, respectively (α=0.05). RESULTS: Significantly lower sensitivity levels (p<0.05) were observed in the coronal portion of fillings performed with both radiopaque sealers. Specificity values for Acroseal® were significantly higher (p<0.05) in the coronal and apical portions of fillings. CONCLUSIONS: The type of root canal sealer can affect the observers' ability to detect root canal filling voids during radiographic analysis of upper single-rooted teeth.

Effects of Gates-Glidden, LA Axxess and orifice shaper burs on the cervical dentin thickness and root canal area of mandibular molars.

This study evaluated the increase of the instrumented area and dentin thickness in the mesial and distal aspects of mesial canals of mandibular molars after the use of Gates Glidden (GG), LA Axxess (LA) and Orifice Shaper (OS) instruments. A total of 53 canals from 27 mandibular molars were embedded in resin and divided into 3 groups. The roots were sectioned 3 mm below the cementoenamel junction and the images were captured before and after instrumentation. The increase of the instrumented area in terms of percentages and the remaining dentin thickness, in mm, at the mesial and furcal aspects were calculated using the Image tools software. Data were analyzed using the Kruskal-Wallis and Dunn's test. The significance level was set at 5%. All instruments promoted cervical flaring with different amounts of dentin removal at the mesial and distal aspects of the root canals. Statistically significant difference (p<0.05) was found between LA and all other instruments after using the first instrument. Regarding dentin thickness, no significant difference (p>0.05) was found between the mesial and distal walls in all groups. It may be concluded that LA 35.06 and GG 3 burs produced the thinnest dentin walls, and thus their use in mesial canals of mandibular molars should be done with caution.

Apical sealing of root canal fillings performed with five different endodontic sealers: analysis by fluid filtration.

OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the sealing ability of five root canal sealers, including two experimental cements (MBP and MTA-Obtura) using the fluid filtration method. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Teeth were divided into 5 study groups: G1-AH Plus; G2-Acroseal; G3Sealapex; G4-MBP; G5-MTA-Obtura; and two controls. Chemical-mechanical preparation was performed with ProFile rotary nickel-titanium instruments 1 mm short of the apical foramen. The sealing ability was evaluated by fluid filtration at 15, 30, and 60 days. RESULTS: The statistical analysis showed significant difference between the materials at different periods (p<0.05). AH Plus and MBP had similar leakage values at 15 and 60 days, alternating with significant reduction at 30 days, while the other materials showed progressive increase in leakage values. Acroseal and Sealapex presented the best results at 15 days and the worst at 60 days. CONCLUSIONS: All sealers evaluated presented fluid leakage, with AH Plus and MBP showing the best results at the end of the experimental period. Acroseal, Sealapex, and MTA-Obtura presented increase in leakage values at longer observation periods.

Smear layer na endodontia, preservar ou remover? / Smear layer in endodontics, preserve or remove?

Introdução: todo canal radicular instrumentado, seja por métodos manuais ou rotatórios, apresentará a formação de uma lama de detritos sobre a parede dentinária, sendo esta composta tanto por matéria orgânica quanto inorgânica, denominada de smear layer. Em relação a sua remoção ou manutenção das paredes do canal, diversos autores apresentaram opiniões e resultados divergentes, gerando dúvidas aos clínicos em relação à conduta mais adequada a ser empregada no tratamento endodôntico. Objetivo: este trabalho, por meio de uma revisão de literatura, visa fornecer uma resposta clara, capaz de melhorar o prognóstico do tratamento. Metodologia: para isso, foram utilizados 25 trabalhos desde o ano de 1975 a 2014, coletados por meio das bases de dados PubMed e Web of Science, com as palavras chaves: "smear layer", "smear layer removal", "smear layer permeability", "smear layer bacteria" e "smear layer sealing". Conclusão: baseado na metodologia proposta pode-se concluir que a remoção da smear layer é a melhor conduta a ser tomada durante o tratamento endodôntico, pois proporciona uma ação antimicrobiana mais eficiente das substâncias irrigadoras e medicações intracanais, além de permitir um melhor selamento entre dentina e material obturador, reduzindo as chances de uma infiltração.

Introduction: the root canal instrumentation, either by manual or mechanicals methods, will result in a formation of debris layer on dentin surface composted by organic and inorganic tissues, denominated smear layer. Due to the several divergent opinion about its removal or maintenance into the root canal, the clinicians may have a doubt for the most appropriate conduct to be performed in endodontics treatments. Objective: this article aimed collect the mains results obtained by different authors to provide a clear answer capable of improving the treatment prognosis. Methods: for this, were used 25 articles since 1975 to 2014 collected by date base PubMed and Web of Science with the keywords "smear layer", "smear layer removal", "smear layer permeability", "smear layer bacteria" and "smear layer sealing". Conclusion: based in the informations obtained in this review, its was concluded that the smear layer removal can, not only, improve the antimicrobial action of the irrigants agents and intracanal medicaments, but also provide a most efficient sealing of the fillingmaterial to dentine wall, reducing the chances to occur a leak in its interface.

Scanning electron microscopy analysis of RinsEndo system and conventional irrigation for debris removal.

A new device for irrigation, which presents hydrodynamic activation based on the pressure-suction technology, has recently been introduced to the market: the RinsEndo system. This study compared the efficacy of the RinsEndo system and conventional (manual-dynamic) irrigation in the removal of debris from the root canal walls, using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Twenty mandibular premolars with completely formed roots were selected and randomly divided into group 1 (irrigation with the RinsEndo system) and group 2 (conventional irrigation). The canals were irrigated with 1 mL of saline at each change of instrument. Instrumentation started with a #15 K file and continued up to a #40 K file, which was standardized as the working length instrument. Then, the teeth were sectioned in buccolingual direction and the halves were sputter-coated with gold and examined by SEM. The apical, middle and cervical root canal thirds were evaluated, and the results were analyzed statistically by the Mann-Whitney test for comparison between methods, Kruskal-Wallis test for comparison among thirds, and Miller test for individual comparisons. A significance level of 5% was set for all analyses. The results did not show significant differences (p>0.05) between methods at each third and among thirds for each technique analyzed individually. In conclusion, there was no difference in the cleaning ability of the RinsEndo system and conventional irrigation.

Removal efficiency of propolis paste dressing from the root canal.

OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study was to investigate through scanning electron microscopy (SEM) the cleaning of root canal walls after the use of experimental propolis or calcium hydroxide root canal dressings. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Twenty single-rooted teeth were used. After conventional cleaning and shaping procedures and removal of the smear layer with 17% EDTA, the teeth were divided into four groups according to the medication used (N=5): Group I (control) - No drug, Group II - Calcium hydroxide dressing, Group III - Propolis paste A70D and Group IV - Propolis paste D70D. The medications were introduced into the root canals and maintained for 7 days, then removed with a K-file and 5 mL of 1% sodium hypochlorite irrigation. Finally, the canals were flushed with 2 mL of 17% EDTA for 3 min. For SEM analysis, the roots were cleaved and microphotographs from the middle third of the root canal were taken at 750x. The cleaning of the root canal walls was determined by the number of open dentinal tubules as verified with the software Image Tool 3.1. The statistical analysis was performed by ANOVA and Tukey's test (p<0.05). RESULTS: The results showed no statistically significant difference between the calcium hydroxide and propolis groups. CONCLUSIONS: The experimental propolis pastes presented acceptable physical characteristics to be used as intracanal medicaments.

Influência do perborato de sódio na desadaptação marginal de tampões cervicais confeccionados com diferentes materiais / Influence of sodium perborate on marginal misfit in cervical barrier made by different materials

Frente aos efeitos deletérios da reabsorção cervical externa, é de grande importância a confecção do tampão cervical quando do clareamento de dentes despolpados. Objetivo: este estudo avaliou a influência do perborato de sódio (PS) e o número de aplicações na desadaptação marginal do tampão cervical. Metodologia: Vinte e quatro pré-molares inferiores foram divididos em três grupos (n=8), de acordo com o material utilizado na confecção do tampão: Cimento de Ionômero de Vidro (CIV), Bioplic (BP) e Agregado de Trióxido Mineral branco (MTA B). Após a aplicação dos materiais, os espécimes foram aplainados e registrados por uma câmera fotográfica acoplada ao Esteromicroscópio. O PS diluído em soro fisiológico foi acomodado sobre os tampões e em seguida selados por 15 dias. Em seguida, o PS foi removido e novas imagens realizadas no Estereomicroscópio. Este ciclo foi repetido, determinando três períodos de avaliação. A desadaptação marginal foi calculada por meio do Software Image J, e os dados submetidos ao teste estatístico de Kruskal-wallis com post-hoc de Dunn para comparação intergrupos (α menor ou igual a 0,05), e teste de Friedman para comparação intragrupos (α menor ou igual a 0,05). Resultados: Verificou-se um aumento significativo na desadaptação marginal do BP e CIV entre os períodos controle e 2ª sessão. Na comparação intergrupos, o MTA B apresentou maior desadaptação quando comparado ao BP em todos os períodos. Conclusão: o PS foi capaz de aumentar a desadaptação marginal de dois materiais após 30 dias, e o MTA B seria o material menos indicado para confecção do tampão cervical...

Due to the deleterious effects of the external cervical resorption, it is extremely important the use of an appropriate cervical barrier in non-vital bleaching. Objective: this study evaluated the influence of sodium perborate (SP) and the number of its application on cervical barrier marginal misfit. Methods: twenty- four human premolars were divided into 3 groups (n=8) according to the material used in manufacture of barrier: Glass Ionomer cement (GIC), Bioplic (BP) and white Mineral Trioxide aggregate (W MTA). After the application of the materials, specimens were planed and registered with a camera mounted in a stereomicroscope. SP diluted in saline was accommodated on the barrier and then sealed for 15 days. Afterwards SP was removed and images were again obtained with stereomicroscope. This cycle was repeated once more, determine three periods of evaluation. Marginal misfit was obtained through Image J software, and the data was subjected to two-way analysis of variance, followed by Tukey post-hoc test (α or less 0,05). Results: there was a significant increase in the marginal misfit of BP and CIV between periods control and 2nd session. In the intergroup comparison, the MTA B showed larger marginal misfit when compared to BP in all periods. Conclusion: the PS was able to increase marginal misfit of 2 materials after 30 days, and the MTA B would be less suitable for making the cervical barrier...

Seladores coronários temporários usados em endodontia: revisão de literatura / Temporary Coronary Sealers used in Endodontics: Literature Review

Entende-se que o selamento coronário é tão importante para o sucesso da terapia endodôntica quanto o próprio tratamento em si, podendo ser considerado parte integral deste. Objetivo: realizar uma revisão de literatura sobre os principais seladores coronários temporários e suas propriedades, para elucidar aos endodontistas e clínicos gerais, qual as melhores opções. Resultados e Discussão: a melhor capacidade de vedamento foi atribuída a materiais fotoativados, cimento de ionômero de vidro e coltosol. Porém, a variação de metodologias encontrados na literatura é grande, tornando difícil suas comparações. Conclusões: existe a necessidade de padronização destes testes, e verificação de sua legitimidade para que possamos ter conclusões concretas sobre o assunto em questão...

It is known that the coronal sealing ability is so important to the endodontic therapy`s success, as the treatment itself, could being considered an integral part of it. Objective: a literature review of the main temporary filling materials and their properties, for the avoidance of the incorrect use of these, by endodontics and general practitioners. Results and Discussion: photoactive material, Ionomer Cement Glass and Coltosol were found to exhibit the best coronal seal. However, variation of regimens used in literature was large, making comparison of reports difficult. Conclusion: it is necessary the standardization of these tests and checking of its legitimacy, so we will have concrete conclusions on the subject in question...

Rat subcutaneous tissue response to calcium silicate containing different arsenic concentrations

Objective: To evaluate the response of rat subcutaneous tissue in implanted polyethylene tubes that were filled with GMTA Angelus and Portland cements containing different arsenic concentrations. Material and Methods: Atomic absorption spectrophotometry was utilized to obtain the values of the arsenic concentration in the materials. Thirty-six rats were divided into 3 groups of 12 animals for each experimental period. Each animal received two implants of polyethylene tubes filled with different test cements and the lateral of the tubes was used as a control group. After 15, 30 and 60 days of implantation, the animals were killed and the specimens were prepared for descriptive and morphometric analysis considering: inflammatory cells, collagen fibers, fibroblasts, blood vessels and other components. The results were analyzed utilizing the Kuskal-Wallis test and the Dunn's Multiple test for comparison (p<0.05). Results: The materials showed, according to atomic absorption spectrophotometry, the following doses of arsenic: GMTA Angelus: 5.01 mg/kg, WPC Irajazinho: 0.69 mg/kg, GPC Minetti: 18.46 mg/kg and GPC Votoran: 10.76 mg/kg. In a 60-day periods, all specimens displayed a neoformation of connective tissue with a structure of fibrocellular aspect (capsule). Control groups and MTA Angelus produced the lower amount of inflammatory reaction and GPC Minetti, the highest reaction. Conclusions: There was no direct relationship between the concentration of arsenic present in the composition of the materials and the intensity of the inflammatory reactions. Higher values, as 18.46 mg/kg of arsenic in the cement, produce characteristics of severe inflammation reaction at the 60-day period. The best results were found in MTA angelus. .

A new improved protocol for in vitro intratubular dentinal bacterial contamination for antimicrobial endodontic tests: standardization and validation by confocal laser scanning microscopy

Objectives To compare three methods of intratubular contamination that simulate endodontic infections using confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM). Material and Methods Two pre-existing models of dentinal contamination were used to induce intratubular infection (groups A and B). These methods were modified in an attempt to improve the model (group C). Among the modifications it may be included: specimen contamination for five days, ultrasonic bath with BHI broth after specimen sterilization, use of E. faecalisduring the exponential growth phase, greater concentration of inoculum, and two cycles of centrifugation on alternate days with changes of culture media. All specimens were longitudinally sectioned and stained with of LIVE/DEAD® for 20 min. Specimens were assessed using CLSM, which provided images of the depth of viable bacterial proliferation inside the dentinal tubules. Additionally, three examiners used scores to classify the CLSM images according to the following parameters: homogeneity, density, and depth of the bacterial contamination inside the dentinal tubules. Kruskal-Wallis and Dunn’s tests were used to evaluate the live and dead cells rates, and the scores obtained. Results The contamination scores revealed higher contamination levels in group C when compared with groups A and B (p<0.05). No differences were observed between group A and B (p>0.05). The volume of live cells in group C was higher than in groups A and B (p<0.05). Conclusion The new protocol for intratubular infection resulted in high and uniform patterns of bacterial contamination and higher cell viability in all specimens when compared with the current methods.

Biocompatibility of acetazolamide pastes in the subcutaneous tissue of rats.

This aim of this study was to investigate the biocompatibility of two experimental acetazolamide (AZ)-based pastes in the subcutaneous tissue of rats. Both pastes contained AZ as the main component in similar concentration. The vehicle in experimental paste 1 was saline, while experimental paste 2 was prepared with propylene glycol. Sixty polyethylene tubes were sealed at one end with gutta-percha (GP), which served as a control. Half of the tubes were filled with paste 1 and half with paste 2. The tubes were implanted in the subcutaneous tissue of 15 rats, being 4 tubes for each animal. The animals were killed 7, 15 and 45 days after surgery and the specimens were processed in laboratory. The histological sections were stained with hematoxylin and eosin and were analyzed by light microscopy. Scores were assigned to level of inflammatory process: 1- none; 2- mild; 3- moderate; 4- severe. The data were analyzed statistically by the Kruskal-Wallis test (p< or =0.05). Paste 1 produced an inflammatory process at 7 days. However, the intensity of this inflammation decreased with time and was nearly absent at 45 days. No statistically significant difference (p>0.05) was observed between the control (GP) and paste 1. However, paste 2 produced inflammatory response at all study periods and differed significantly (p<0.05) from the control. In conclusion, in the present study, the experimental AZ-based paste 1 was considered as biocompatible as the control matrial (GP), while experimental paste 2 was irritating to rat subcutaneous tissue.

Bilateral mandibular canines with two roots and two separate canals: case report.

The mandibular canine is usually considered a single-rooted tooth with a single root canal. However, two canals and more rarely two roots may also occur. This paper reports the case of a patient with bilateral mandibular canines with two roots and two root canals. The initial periapical radiographs of the mandibular right and left canines for endodontic treatment revealed the presence of two roots in each tooth. After coronal opening, the cervical third was prepared with a SX file of the ProTaper system and root canal length was confirmed using Root ZX electronic apex locator. Root canal preparation was completed with the series of ProTaper instruments and the root canal was filled with gutta-percha and an epoxy resin-based endodontic sealer according to Tagger's hybrid technique. The final radiographs showed two well-obturated canals ending at the electronically located apexes. The 6-month posttreatment follow-up showed apparent clinical and radiographic success. Clinicians should always consider the presence of anatomical variations in the teeth during endodontic treatments. Despite the low prevalence, variations may occur in the number of roots and root canals of mandibular canines, as demonstrated in this case report.

Sealing ability of grar MTA AngelusTM, CPM TM and MBPc used as apical plugs.

This study evaluated the sealing ability of apical plugs fabricated with gray MTA Angelus sealer, CPM TM sealer and MBPc sealer. The root canals of 98 extracted single-rooted human teeth were instrumented with #5 to #1 Gates Glidden drills according to the crown-down technique until the #1 drill could pass through the apical foramen. The specimens were then prepared with K-files, starting with an ISO 50 until an ISO 90 could be visualized 1 mm beyond the apex. After root canal preparation, the external surface of each root was rendered impermeable and roots were assigned to 3 experimental groups (n = 30), which received a 5-mm thick apical plug of gray MTA Angelus, CPM and MBPc, and two control groups (n=4). The remaining portion of the canal in the experimental groups was filled by the lateral condensation technique. The teeth of each group, properly identified, were fixed on utility wax by their crowns and were placed in plastic flasks, leaving the apex free and facing upward. The flasks were filled with 0.2% Rhodamine B solution, pH 7.0, so as to completely cover the root apex of all teeth. The sealing ability was analyzed by measuring 0.2% Rhodamine B leakage after all groups had been maintained in this solution for 48 hours. Data were analyzed statistically by Kruskal-Wallis test and Dunn test with a=5%. The results showed that, among the tested materials used for fabrication of apical plugs, MBPc sealer had the least amount of leakage with statistically significant difference (p<0.05).