SEALERS FOR ENDODONTIC THERAPY

One of the important objectives of endodontic therapy is obturation of the prepared root canal system with an inert, dimensionally stable and biologically compatible material. Gutta-percha is universally accepted as the "Gold standard" for the obturating materials but it presents no adhesiveness to tooth structure. Root canal sealer, on the other hand fills the intermediate space between the core material and dentin wall. An ideal endodontic sealer should provide the following: an excellent seal when set, dimensional stability, a slow setting time to ensure sufficient working time, insolubility to tissue fluids, adequate adhesion with canal walls and biocompatibility. Various types of sealers are available like resin sealers, Mineral Trioxide aggregate sealer, Bio-ceramic containing sealers, ZOE sealers, Glass ionomer containing sealer, calcium hydroxide containing sealer etc. Choice of sealer depends upon core material and obturation technique that will further depend upon the anatomy of the root canal and is also said to be affected by pre-existing periapical conditions for proper healing outcome.