The effect of different irrigating solutions on the push out bond strength of endodontic sealer to dentin and assessing the fracture modes: An In-vitro study

Aim: To evaluate the effect of smear clear, 7% maleic acid, 10% citric acid, and 17% EDTA on the push-out bond strength of epoxy resin-based endodontic sealer to dentin. Materials and Methodos: Fifty extracted mandibular premolars were collected. After decoronation using a diamond disc and water spray to obtain approximately 14 mm long root segments, canal patency and working length were established by inserting K file #15 (Mani). The root canals were enlarged using Protaper nickel-titanium rotary instruments to size #F3 at the working length irrigating with 3 mL of 2.6% sodium hypochlorite between each file size. The roots were then randomly divided into four groups (n = 10) according to the final irrigation regimen Group1: Saline (control). Group 2: 17% EDTA, Group 3: 7% maleic acid, Group 4: 10% citric acid, Group 5: Smear clear. Obturation was done using gutta-percha with AH Plus sealer. Each root section was then subjected to a compressive load via a universal testing machine, to measure the push out bond strength followed by assessment of fracture pattern under stereomicroscope. Results: The data was collected and submitted to statistical analysis by one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) test. Group 3: NaOCl/maleic acid/distilled water showed greater bond strength (2.2+/-0.278 MPa) as compared to other groups. Mixed type of bond failure was predominant. Conclusion: Removal of smear layer with maleic acid as a final rinse enhanced the adhesive ability of AH plus sealer, followed by EDTA and smear clear