Depth of Penetration of Sealer into Radicular Dentinal Tubules using Ultrasonic Activation: An in vitro Confocal Laser Scanning Microscopic Evaluation

Aim Comparative evaluation of sealer penetration into dentin by ultrasonic sealer activation modality using confocal laser scanning microscope. Objectives To evaluate the depth of sealer penetration into dentinal tubules by ultrasonic activation modality. Methodology Fouty freshly extracted human permanent single rooted premolars extracted for orthodontic reasons with mature apex were used. The teeth were decoronated, working length established and prepared upto protaper F5 rotary file. Ah-Plus sealer ws mixed with rhodamine B dye and 0.5ml of sealer was placed in the canals by tuberculin syringe. Sealer was activated using proultra ultrasonic file, canals were dried with paper points and obturation was done using lateral condensation technique. Roots were sectioned using hard tissue microtome. These sections were examined under confocal laser scanning microscope. Results Statistical analyses of the data was performed using ANOVA and Tukey Multiple comparison test. Statistically significant difference was found among all the three zones (p=0.0001). Sealer penetration was maximum in coronal zone followed by middle followed by apical. Conclusion Ultrasonic activation favoured the depth and penetration of sealer in the dentinal tubules at all the zones.