(PO45) Effects of Heat and Humidity on the Physical and Biological Properties of Endodontic Sealers

Abstract: Clinicians require endodontic materials with optimized physical and biological properties that exhibit stability in various conditions. Within the military, products are needed that can withstand extreme environmental conditions while in transit or in storage. The susceptibility of these products to such conditions is relatively unknown, but this information could provide clinicians with vital information on their durability and effectiveness. In this study, we tested four commonly used endodontic sealers under simulated extreme heat and humidity conditions to assess their physical and biological durability. AH Plus Jet (resin), GuttaFlow 2 (silicone), EndoSequence BC (bioceramic), and Pulp Canal Sealer (zinc oxide) were stressed for 15, 30, and 60 days under Military Standard Induced Hot-Humid Cycle B3 Storage and Transit conditions. Physical and biological tests were performed against non-stressed control samples using respective ISO standard testing protocols. A statistical analysis was performed using GraphPad Prism 7.0. GuttaFlow 2 showed statistically significant superior performance in stability and durability in all tested parameters. AH Plus Jet displayed the highest variability in sample viscosity and durability. EndoSequence BC, under both unstressed and stressed conditions, underperformed in all tested parameters. The results of this study indicate not all endodontic sealers are equitable in their durability. Exposure to abnormal heat and humidity yields a variety of alterations in physical and biological properties. The results obtained from this study provide invaluable information to practicing clinicians in their decision-making process of which endodontic sealers best satisfy their needs in both military and civilian worlds.