The effect of different root canal sealers on the fracture resistance of endodontically treated teeth-in vitro study

Background The aim of this study was to compare the in vitro effects of four different root canal sealers on the fracture resistance of endodontically treated teeth. Materials and Methods Seventy-five freshly extracted human mandibular premolars were used for the study. Teeth were divided into five groups based on type of root canal sealers used. Gutta-percha was used for all the samples: Group I: AH Plus root canal sealer, Group II: MTA Fillapex root canal sealer, Group III: Apexit root canal sealer, Group IV: Conventional zinc oxide-eugenol (ZOE) sealer, Group V: Control (unobturated teeth). The teeth were embedded in acrylic resin blocks and fracture force was measured using a universal testing machine (Asian Test Equipments). Data obtained were statistically evaluated using one-way ANOVA and post hoc test (Tukey's test). All groups showed statistically significant result (P < 0.05). Results Group I and Group II showed higher resistance to fracture than other three groups. There was comparable difference in fracture force between Group I and Group II. Moreover, there was no statistically significant difference between Group III and Group IV and between Group IV and Group V. Conclusion Based on this in vitro study, resin-based sealer was more effective as compared to other sealers and the control group. However, no significant differences were observed between ZOE and control group.