A micro-computed tomographic study of remaining filling materials of two bioceramic sealers and epoxy resin sealer after retreatment

OBJECTIVE: This study evaluated the presence of residual root canal filling material after retreatment using micro-computed tomography (micro-CT). MATERIALS AND METHODS: Extracted human teeth (single- and double-rooted, n = 21/each; C-shaped, n = 15) were prepared with ProFile and randomly assigned to three subgroups for obturation with gutta-percha and three different sealers (EndoSeal MTA, EndoSequence BC sealer, and AH Plus). After 10 days, the filling material was removed and the root canals were instrumented one size up from the previous master apical file size. The teeth were scanned using micro-CT before and after retreatment. The percentage of remaining filling material after retreatment was calculated at the coronal, middle, and apical thirds. Data were analyzed using the Kruskal-Wallis test and Mann-Whitney U test with Bonferroni post hoc correction. RESULTS: The tested sealers showed no significant differences in the percentage of remaining filling material in single- and double-rooted teeth, although EndoSeal MTA showed the highest value in C-shaped roots (p < 0.05). The percentage of remaining filling material of AH Plus and EndoSeal MTA was significantly higher in C-shaped roots than in single- or double-roots (p < 0.05), while that of BC sealer was similar across all root types. EndoSeal MTA showed the highest values at the apical thirds of single- and double-roots (p < 0.05); otherwise, no significant differences were observed among the coronal, middle, and apical thirds. CONCLUSIONS: Within the limitations of this study, a large amount of EndoSeal MTA remained after retreatment, especially in C-shaped root canals.

A combined approach to non-carious cervical lesions associated with gingival recession

Non-carious cervical lesions (NCCLs) with gingival recession require specific consideration on both aspects of hard and soft tissue lesion. In the restorative aspect, careful finishing and polishing of the restorations prior to mucogingival surgery is the critical factor contributing to success. Regarding surgery, assessment of the configuration of the lesion and the choice of surgical technique are important factors. The precise diagnosis and the choice of the proper treatment procedure should be made on the basis of both restorative and surgical considerations to ensure the successful treatment of NCCLs.