The comparison of dentin adaptation and sealing ability of gutta-percha/AH Plus, Resilon/Epiphany SE, EndoREZ: an in-vitro study

INTRODUCTION: The aim of this study was to compare three different root canal filling systems (gutta-percha/AH Plus, Resilon+Epiphany SE, EndoREZ) regarding their adaptation to dentine and their sealing ability at different horizontal sections.
METHODS: Hundred single-rooted upper incisors were divided into 3 groups and filled gutta-percha/AH Plus, Resilon+Epiphany SE or EndoREZ root canal filling system. All teeth were sectioned at the depths of apical 1 mm, 3 mm, and 5 mm. The cut sections were examined with stereomicroscope. The ratios of the areas containing core material, sealer and/or space to the total area were calculated and analyzed statistically.
RESULTS: EndoREZ had significantly more core ratio at 1 mm compared to the other systems. At 3 mm, Gutta-percha/AH Plus had the lowest core ratio (p<0.05). At 1 mm cut section, EndoREZ had significantly lower sealer+debris+space ratio than other groups, while Gutta-percha/AH Plus had the highest sealer+debris+space ratio at 3 mm (p<0.05). When core, sealer, and space areas were examined within groups, significant differences were found in the ratios of Gutta-percha/AH Plus and Resilon+Epiphany SE groups at different cut sections.
DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION: Results of the present study are mostly consistent with the previous findings. However, there are some contradictory results as well. Conflicting findings might result from the differences in the methods of measurement. Moreover, filling materials that are away from the biological cycle may limit in vitro studies.