Nanostructured hydroxyapatite as filler for methacrylate‐based root canal sealers

Abstract

To evaluate the effect of different concentrations of nanostructured hydroxyapatite on the radiopacity, flow and film thickness of an experimental root canal sealer. An experimental dual-cured root canal sealer was produced with a methacrylate-based co-monomer blend. Nanostructured hydroxyapatite/calcium tungstate solutions (ratios 10:90, 20:80, 30:70 and 40:60) were added to produce the sealer. Radiopacity was evaluated using a digital system and an aluminium step wedge (n=5). Flow and thickness tests were conducted in accordance with ISO 6876 (n=3). The data were analysed using one-way anova and Tukey's test (α=0.05). All groups had levels of radiopacity in accordance with ISO 6876. The flow of the experimental sealers was not significantly different (P=0.204). All groups had a film thickness in accordance with ISO 6876 and with no statistical difference (P = 0.654). The addition of up to 40% HA(nano) to root canal sealers did not alter their radiopacity and film thickness.