Evaluation of push-out bond strength of GuttaFlow 2 to root canal dentin treated with different smear layer removal agents

Abstract

Aim: The purpose of this in vitro study was to evaluate and compare the effect of 7% maleic acid and QMix root canal irrigants on the push-out bond strength of GuttaFlow 2 to root canal dentin. Materials and Methods: Thirty single-rooted maxillary incisors were taken and decoronated to a standardized root length of 15 mm. Canal patency was established and working length was determined using #15 K file. The root canals were then prepared to F3 size using nickel-titanium ProTaper rotary instruments with 3 ml of 2.5% sodium hypochlorite irrigation performed between each instrumentation. Then, based on the final irrigation regimen, the specimens were randomly divided into three groups (n = 10): Group 1: QMix, Group 2: 7% Maleic acid, and Group 3: 0.9% Saline (control group). The root canals were obturated using GuttaFlow 2 sealer and 2-mm horizontal thick sections of each root were prepared at three levels using a hard tissue microtome. Push-out bond strength was measured using a universal testing machine by application of compressive force to each root canal filling at a crosshead speed of 1 mm/min. Results: Group 3 showed significantly higher bond strength values than Group 1 and 2 in all the three levels of the root canal. Conclusion: The smear layer removal using 7% maleic acid and QMix as a final rinse did not enhance the bond strength of GuttaFlow 2 to radicular dentin.

Keywords

• Endodontic irrigants
• GuttaFlow 2
• maleic acid
• push-out bond strength
• QMix