Eugenol-based sealers have a long history in dentistry however there is no consensus in the literature regarding the influence of eugenol-based sealers on the bond strength of fibre post cementation. The aim of this in-vitro review was to assess the influence of eugenol on the bond strength of posts luted to root canals.

Methods

Searches were conducted in the PubMed, Scopus, LILACS and Web of science databases without language restriction. Studies comparing the immediate push-out bond strength (apex crown loading direction) of posts to root dentine after the removal of a eugenol-based sealer and included a comparison of bond strength values to a eugenol-free group with mean and standard deviation values presented (in MPa) were considered. Studies were screened by two reviewers independently and risk of bias assessed using a study specific checklist.

Results

• 9 in-vitro studies were included.
• Two studies used bovine teeth the remainder human teeth.
• 7 studies were considered to be at a low risk of bias, 1 a moderate and 1 high risk.
• There was a significant influence of eugenol, which lowered the bond strengths for fibre posts cemented to root canals ( 0.8 MPa).
• The negative effect of eugenol was seen with all included sealers.

Conclusions

The authors concluded:

Eugenol-based sealers reduced the immediate push-out bond strength of fiber posts luted to the root canal with resin cement, regardless of the type of adhesive system or resin cement used. Thus, we suggest that eugenol-based sealers should be avoided when resin cementation is planned for dental rehabilitation.

Comments

This review has employed a broad search strategy. However, this review is based on in-vitro studies and as the authors point out it is immediate bond strength that is being tested. While a reduction in bond strength using eugenol-based sealers is demonstrated only the clinical impact of the findings may still be debatable.

Links

Altmann AS, Leitune VC, Collares FM. Influence of Eugenol-based Sealers on Push-out Bond Strength of Fiber Post Luted with Resin Cement: Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. J Endod. 2015 Jul 24. pii: S0099-2399(15)00500-2. doi: 10.1016/j.joen.2015.05.014. [Epub ahead of print] Review. PubMed PMID: 26211566.