Sealing Ability of Various Types of Root Canal Sealers at Different Levels of Remaining Gutta Percha After Post Space Preparation at Two Time Intervals

OBJECTIVE: This study evaluated the apical sealing ability of various types of sealers (Sure-Seal Root, AH Plus, and GuttaFlow2) at different levels of remaining gutta percha after post space preparation at two time intervals (1 day and 1 week after obturation). MATERIALS AND METHODS: One hundred and two single canal mandibular premolars were decoronated at the cement–enamel junction and biomechanically prepared. Twelve samples served as negative and positive controls (n = 6). The remaining 90 samples were distributed into three groups (n = 30 each), based on the used sealer for obturation with gutta percha (Sure-Seal Root, AH Plus, GuttaFlow2). Each experimental group was divided into two subgroups (n = 15 each), subgroup I: post space prepared 1 day after obturation and subgroup II: post space prepared 1 week after obturation. For each subgroup, the post space was prepared to a length that remained 3, 4, or 5 mm of gutta percha apically for each of five samples. Then, the dye penetration technique was used to measure the apical microleakage. Data were analyzed using “ANOVA test” and “post hoc Duncan’s test.” RESULTS: Sure-Seal Root sealer demonstrated the best apical seal compared with other tested sealers. Post space preparation 1 day after obturation exhibited less microleakage than the group with 1 week after obturation. Additionally, 5 mm of remaining gutta percha showed superior sealing value than 3 and 4 mm. CONCLUSION: Bioceramic (Sure-Seal) sealer is the material of choice to be used when post space preparation is required. Post space preparation was preferred to be done 1 day after obturation than 1 week after obturation. Superlative apical seal was obtained with a maximum length of remaining gutta percha.