LONGITUDINAL EVALUATION OF THE SEAL OF IRM ROOT END FILLINGS

IRM has been recommended for root end filling during endodontic surgery. This study evaluated the seal of IRM root end fillings prepared with various powder to liquid ratios (P:L) at extended time intervals using a fluid filtration method. The P:L of IRM evaluated included 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6 g/ml and the P:L which resulted from the manufacturer's recommended scoop and dropper. Ten teeth were evaluated for microleakage for each group at 1, 2, 3, 4, 8, and 12 wk after insertion. There were no significant differences in the microleakage of any of the various P:L groups at weeks 3, 8, and 12. These results suggest that higher P:L of IRM than those previously recommended for temporary restorations and for endodontic access preparations may be acceptable for root end fillings. IRM of higher P:L has other advantages such as ease of placement and decreased setting time, toxicity, and solubility.