INTRODUCTION: Remaining microorganisms after chemo-mechanical cleaning and disinfection may be eliminated or rendered harmless by entombing them through complete obturation with gutta percha points and sealer. Adequate antimicrobial effect is of optimum importance to achieve root canal treatment success.
OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study was to investigate the antimicrobial potential of two types of sealers against Enterococcusfaecalis present in dentinal tubules, over a 30 day period.
MATERIALS AND METHODS: Cells of Enterococcus faecalis were introduced into the dentinal tubules by incubation in brain-heart infusion broth for 3 weeks. AH Plus and Endosequence BioCeramic sealer (BC sealer) were coated on the root canal wall of the dentin specimens and cold lateral obturation technique was preformed, specimens were then stored for one, seven, and 30 days at 37°C. At the end of each incubation period, dentin powder was collected by sequential removal of dentin by the use of peeso reamers throughout the sample thickness, total bacterial count was assessed by Colony forming units (CFU) count.
RESULTS: No significant difference was observed in the total bacterial count among the three groups in day one. AH Plus showed statistically significant lower bacterial counts in comparison to the positive control group in day 7 and day 30, while Endosequence BC showed a statistically significant lower bacterial count in comparison to the positive control group at day 30.
CONCLUSIONS: AH plus exhibited a stronger antibacterial affect after setting and therefore is more effective than Endosequence BC in eliminating Enterococcus faecalis from the root canal system. In addition, both sealers lose their antibacterial effect with time.