Dear Editor-in-Chief, We read the article by Alsofi et al.,1 with great interest, as it addressed an important property of root canal sealers, their ability to achieve a void-free fill of the root canal space, thereby providing a three-dimensional, fluid-tight seal essential for the long-term success of root canal therapy. However, we would like to offer some additional insights into two widely used types of root canal sealers: epoxy resin-based sealers and bioceramic sealers, which were utilized in the above-mentioned study. First, the final irrigation protocol can influence the interaction of the root canal sealer with the radicular dentin surface. For instance, if the final irrigant used is ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA), the exposed collagen on the canal surface can enhance the sealing ability of epoxy resin-based sealers, as they form covalent bonds through the opening of the epoxide ring with amino groups in collagen.2 On the contrary, the use of sodium hypochlorite as the final irrigant removes the exposed collagen, thereby promoting increased interaction between the bioceramic sealer and the hydroxyapatite of the root canal walls. This interaction is believed to enhance sealing through a process known as biomineralization.3 A second aspect to be considered is the root canal drying protocol, which should be tailored to the type of sealer being used. For epoxy resin-based sealers, the canals should be kept very dry, as moisture can adversely affect their properties. In contrast, bio ceramic sealers, particularly the injectable hydrophilic varieties, require the presence of moisture, which is essential not only for their setting but also for the phenomenon of biomineralization.4 Third, the difference in obturation protocols can lead to significant variations in the sealer flow, setting reaction, and dentinal tubule penetration.5 Even though the study follows the manufacturer’s instructions for each of the sealers tested, the difference in the technique can cause confounding variables, which might limit the validity of the comparison of sealers. Thus, depending on the sealer used, standardization of final irrigation, canal drying, and obturation protocols is essential, as these factors critically influence sealer performance. We trust that our observations will help refine future methodologies, advance clinical practice, and foster continued dialogue in this field. Financial support and sponsorship Nil. Conflicts of interest There are no conflicts of interest.
Bhatla et al. (2026) studied this question.