An in-vitro Comparative Evaluation of the Influence of Immediate and Delayed Post-Space Preparation on the Apical Seal: A Stereomicroscopic Study

Abstract

Aim: To evaluate the effect of immediate and delayed post-space preparation, on the apical seal

Materials and Methods: Sixty-five extracted permanent maxillary central incisors were procured and decoronated. Samples were divided equally into groups of twenty each (n=20) for Groups I, II, and III and 5 for Group IV. Groups I and II were the study groups with immediate and delayed post-space preparation respectively. Groups III and IV served as positive and negative controls respectively. Root canals were instrumented and obturated in the study groups and the positive control group, while it was kept unobturated in the negative control group. After the required sealing, the samples were kept in India Ink dye and evaluated for microleakage under a stereomicroscope.

Statistical Analysis: The obtained data was subjected to statistical analysis using the One-way Analysis of Variance(ANOVA) test with the post-hoc Tukey test. The significance level was set at 5%(P<0.05).

Results: The mean microleakage in Groups I, II, and III were found to be 0.53±0.63 mm, 1.06±0.79 mm, and 5.88±0.652 mm respectively. A statistically significant difference was found between all the study groups(P<0.05).

Conclusion: An immediate preparation of a post-space using a heated endodontic plugger significantly contributes to a lesser microleakage.