An evaluation of genotoxicity of different root canal sealers by MN assay – An in-vitro study

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate the genotoxicity of Endoflas FS (zinc-oxide eugenol based sealer), RC Seal (epoxyresin based sealer), Diapex (calcium hydroxide based medicated sealer), Roeko Seal (silicone based sealer) and MTA Fillapex (MTA based sealer) root canal sealers using MN assay. Methods: The samples were divided in to two main groups positive control group (EMS media alone) and experimental group (sealers used in the study). i. Positive Control group: EMS media alone was used as control group. ii. Experimental group: This group was divided into five subgroups according to the type of root canal sealers used: Group 1: Endoflas FS (EFS), Group 2 :Diapex (D), Group 3 : MTA Fillapex (MF), Group 4 : RC Seal (RCS), Group 5: RoekoSeal(RS). The extracts from the root canal sealers of each experimental subgroup were serially diluted (1:1, 1:2, 1:4, 1:8, 1:16, and 1:32). They were tested for genotoxicity on L929-Mouse fibroblast cells line using MN assay at 24 hours, 48 hours and 78 hours. Results: The average of micronuclei number/1000 cells, formation in EFS was more in 1:1 concentration at 72hr (22.60±0.54 and was less in the concentration 1:32 at 24hr (3.00±0.70). The average micronuclei number/1000 cells, formation were highest in 1:1 concentration at 72hr (21.80±0.44) and 48hr (19.80±0.44),higher than control group and were lowest in the concentration 1:32 at 24hr (2.20±044). The average micronuclei number/1000 cells formation in Group III (MF) was highest in 1:1 concentration at 72 hr (24.20±0.44).there was gradual decrease in micronuclei number/1000 cells in 1:1; 1:2; 1:4 at 24hr, 48hr, 72hr but in 1:8 at 48 and72hr there was no differences micronuclei number /1000 cells formation. Conclusion: It may be concluded that addition of bactericidal agents such as iodoform and paramonochlorophenol in the formula of root canal sealers can augment their genotoxicity.