Evaluation of effect of N-acetyl cysteine intracanal medicament on dentinal tubule penetration and percentage of an Epoxy Resin based sealer and a Bioceramic based sealer using Confocal Laser Scanning Microscopy -An in-vitro study

Abstract

ABSTRACT AIM: To evaluate the effect of N- acetyl cysteine intracanal medicament on dentinal tubule penetration and percentage of an Epoxy resin based sealer and a Bioceramic based sealer using Confocal Laser Scanning Microscopy - An in-vitro study METHODOLOGY: Seventy eight extracted human maxillary anterior teeth were selected and decoronated to acquire a standardized root length of 14 mm. Working length was established using a 10 k file and Chemomechanical preparation was done using Protaper universal till master apical file size F4 and specimens were irrigated with 2ml of 5.25% sodium hypochlorite between successive files and final irrigation with 5ml of 17% EDTA for 3 minutes. All the specimens were then dried with paper points and randomly divided into 3 groups. Group 1: Experimental group (NAC) with Epoxy resin sealer Group 2: Experimental group (NAC) with Bioceramic based sealer Group 3: Negative control group. N- acetyl cysteine medicament was placed in Group I and Group II specimens followed by incubation at 37°C for 15 days after which the medicament was removed using Passive Ultrasonic irrigation and obturation was done for all 3 groups with respective Gutta percha coated with rhodamine mixed sealer. Incubation was done for 7 days after which samples were sectioned at different levels (3, 7, 11 mm from the apex) and examined under the confocal laser scanning microscope for dentinal tubule penetration and percentage of sealers. Images obtained were analysed using Image J software. Statistical analysis was done using Two way ANOVA and Tukey’s multiple post-hoc tests.