The maintenance of the smear layer on the dentinal walls after root canal preparation (RCP) limit the penetration of antimicrobial agents, such as irrigating solutions and intracanal medication, into the interior of the dentinal tubules and can hinder the compaction and adaptation of the filling material and Furthermore, it can act as a substrate for bacteria remaining inside the root canal. Therefore, a combination of different solutions, such as sodium hipoclorite and ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) are used during the final irrigation. Additionally, devices have been developed to enhance the action of irrigating solutions.

This project will determine which irrigation protocols and instrumentation techniques are most effective at improving sealer penetration into dentinal tubules, potentially leading to better clinical outcomes.

Another important part of root canal treatment is filling the root canal system after RCP and final irrigation. This is important to prevent the infiltration of microorganisms and their byproducts. Heat application during root canal filling can alter the properties of calcium silicate-based sealers, which might affect their long-term performance. Thus, the study also aims to investigate whether heat influences the physicochemical properties of various calcium silicate-based sealers. Insights into the effects of heat on sealer properties may help in developing better materials or application methods, contributing to more durable and effective root canal treatments.

By focusing on these objectives, the research can make a valuable contribution to the field of endodontics, provide guidance to improve clinical protocols.

Anelise Viapiana Masiero is an associate professor in the Department of Endodontics. Her research team includes Fabricio Teixeira, Abhishek Parolia, and Iandara de Lima Scardini. 

The study is supported by the University of Iowa College of Dentistry’s Clinical/Dental Education Research Initiative Support Program (CRISP). This program is intended to provide support for faculty who have a specific clinical (or dental education) research question.