Scanning electron microscopy and energy dispersive X-ray analysis evaluation of silver nanoparticles-modified bioceramic and resin-based root canal sealers.

BACKGROUND: Effective endodontic treatment relies on the achievement of an impermeable seal within the canal environment, where dentinal tubule penetration and interfacial adaptation are crucial for entombing residual bacteria. Incorporation of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) into sealers has been proposed to enhance their physicochemical and antibacterial properties. AIM: This study aimed to analyze the depth of intratubular penetration, interfacial adaptation, and the elemental composition of traditional and AgNP-containing sealers by scanning electron microscopy and energy dispersive X-ray analysis (SEM-EDAX). MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 52 recently extracted single-rooted teeth were grouped into four divisions at random (n = 13): Group 1 - AH Plus; Group 2 - AH Plus + AgNPs; Group 3 - BIO-C; Group 4 - BIO-C + AgNPs. Following biomechanical preparation with ProTaper Gold up to F3, Obturation was carried out using a single-cone approach. Sectioning was performed at the coronal, middle, and apical thirds of the root. SEM assessed sealer penetration and interfacial adaptation, while EDAX evaluated elemental distribution. Statistical analysis was conducted using one-way analysis of variance followed by Tukey's post hoc test (P < 0.05). RESULTS: All groups exhibited sealer penetration, with significantly greater values in coronal and middle thirds than apical. AgNP-modified groups demonstrated enhanced penetration and improved interfacial adaptation compared to conventional sealers. EDAX confirmed uniform silver distribution in nanoparticle groups. CONCLUSION: AgNP incorporation improved dentinal tubule penetration and interfacial characteristics of both AH Plus and BIO-C sealers. SEM-EDAX proved effective for microstructural and elemental evaluation.