Characterization of leachates from 6 root canal sealers

Introduction: The aim of this study was to evaluate 6 different endodontic sealers by characterizing their leachates and comparing their solubility in water over a 4-week period. Methods: The solubility of each sealer (Apexit Plus [Ivoclar Vivadent AG, Schaan, Liechtenstein], MTA Fillapex [Angelus Dental, Londrina, Brazil], AH Plus [Dentsply DeTrey, Konstanz, Germany], BioRoot RCS [Septodont, Saint-Maur-des-Fossés, France], Total Fill [FKG Dentaire SA, La Chaux-de-Fonds, Switzerland], and Obturys [Itena, Paris, France]) was tested according to the ISO specification 6876:2012 over a 4-week period. Residues were chemically analyzed using energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy. Solubility was analyzed using 2-way analysis of variance and elution with 1-way analysis of variance (P < .05). Results: At 24 hours, the solubility of the tested sealers was as follows: AH Plus, 0.0%; Obturys, 0.2%; Apexit Plus, 0.2%; Fillapex, 1.8%; Total Fill, 9.4%; and BioRoot RCS, 13.1%. BioRoot RCS was significantly more soluble than the other sealers, apart from Total Fill (P < .05). After 1 week, the solubility of Total Fill increased to 11.2%, significantly exceeding the solubility of AH Plus, Obturys, and Apexit Plus. After 2 weeks, MTA Fillapex (10.9%) was significantly more soluble than AH Plus, Obturys, and Apexit Plus. High levels of calcium were released from BioRoot RCS, Apexit Plus, MTA Fillapex, and Total Fill. AH Plus released mainly sodium and lanthanum, and Obturys showed an increase of silicon release over time. Conclusions: All sealers met ISO 6876:2012 regarding solubility (limit <3% at 24 hours) with the exception of Total Fill and BioRoot RCS. MTA Fillapex exceeded the limit after 1 week. High levels of calcium were released from all materials, except from the epoxy resin-based sealers.