Comparison of Sealing Ability in the Apical Third of Tooth Root Canals after Post Preparation and Obturation with MTA Sealer and Epoxy Sealer

The success of endodontic treatment is largely dependent on the sealing achieved by root canal obturation. Some endodontically treated teeth require restoration using posts and cores. This involves partial removal of the root canal filling to create adequate space for the retention of the intracanal post. Root canal sealers, such as epoxy and Minerale Trioxide Aggregate (MTA) sealers that have excellent adhesive properties and sealing ability, are commonly used to maintain the obturation seal. The aim of this study was to compare the sealing ability of MTA and epoxy sealers in the apical third of the root canal after post preparation. Root canal preparation was carried out in 40 human teeth using a crown-down technique. Irrigation was performed using 2.5% NaOCl and 17% EDTA, and RC-Prep was used for lubrication. The canals were then filled with gutta percha and root canal sealers (MTA Fillapex or AH Plus) using a cold lateral condensation technique. The teeth were then decalcified using the Robertson technique and examined under a stereomicroscope. Post preparation was performed 7 days after obturation using a peeso reamer. The residual seal was measured by examining the extent of dye leakage, where a score of 1 indicated ink penetration up to 0-0.5 mm, a score of 2 indicated ink penetration up to 0.51-1 mm, and a score of 3 indicated ink penetration of >1 mm. The distribution of dye leakage scores in the SE group was 35%, 30%, and 35% for scores 1, 2, and 3, respectively. The corresponding distribution in the SM group was 25%, 30%, and 45% for scores 1, 2, and 3, respectively. Chi-square test showed no significant differences between the two groups. The extent of dye leakage observed suggested that the both types of root canal sealers (MTA Fillapex or AH Plus) exhibited similar sealability.