In vitro fracture resistance of roots obturated with epoxy resin-based, mineral trioxide aggregate-based, and bioceramic root canal sealers.

INTRODUCTION: The aim of this study was to evaluate the fracture resistance of teeth filled with 3 different endodontic sealers.

METHODS: Seventy-five single-rooted extracted mandibular premolars were decoronated to a length of 13 mm. The teeth were randomly divided into 5 groups (n = 15 for each group). In group 1, the teeth were left unprepared and unfilled (negative control), and in group 2, the teeth were left unobturated (positive control). The rest of the roots were prepared by using the ProTaper System up to a master apical file size of F3: group 3, bioceramic sealer (Endosequence BC sealer) + gutta-percha; group 4, mineral trioxide aggregate-based sealer (Tech Biosealer Endo) + gutta-percha; and group 5, epoxy resin-based sealer (AH Plus Jet) + gutta-percha. All root specimens were stored for 2 weeks at 100% humidity to allow the complete setting of the sealers. Each specimen was then subjected to fracture testing by using a universal testing machine at a crosshead speed of 1.0 mm/min(-1) until the root fractured. The force required to fracture each specimen was recorded, and the data were analyzed statistically.

RESULTS: The fracture values of groups 3 and 5 were significantly higher than those of group 4 (P < .05). There was no significant difference between groups 3 and 5 (P > .05).

CONCLUSIONS: In contrast to Tech Biosealer Endo, Endosequence BC and AH Plus Jet sealer increased the force to fracture in root-filled single-rooted premolar teeth.