Bacterial leakage of bioceramic versus resin sealers in different obturation techniques: an in-vitro study

Aim: to compare bacterial leakage of Neo-sealer (a bioceramic sealer) and AH-Plus (an epoxy resin-based sealer) using different obturation techniques.

Methodology: Ninety mandibular molars without caries, cracks, fractures, resorption, open apices, or prior endodontic treatment were selected. Mesial roots were standardized in length; distal roots were discarded. Samples were randomly divided into six groups: (1) Neo-sealer + single cone; (2) Neo-sealer + lateral compaction; (3) Neo-sealer + warm vertical compaction; (4) AH-Plus + single cone; (5) AH-Plus + lateral compaction; and (6) AH-Plus + warm vertical compaction. Canals were prepared to size #30 with 4% taper and irrigated using 5% NaOCl and saline. Each group was obturated according to its protocol. Bacterial leakage was evaluated by a blinded operator, and the time to leakage was recorded. Statistical analysis was performed using two-way ANOVA and Tukey’s test (α=0.05)

Results: Mean leakage times (in days) were: 9.64, 17.53, 13.21, 12.47, 7.73, and 8.53 for groups 1–6, respectively. No significant differences were found among sealers, techniques, or their combinations (P>0.05).

Conclusions: Neo-sealer and AH-Plus showed similar effectiveness in preventing coronal bacterial leakage across all obturation techniques. The single cone method was comparable to lateral and warm vertical compaction in sealing ability.