Analysis of Tissue Reactions to Methacrylate Resin-based, Epoxy Resin-based, and Zinc Oxide-Eugenol Endodontic Sealers

The purpose of this study was to investigate the reaction of the subcutaneous connective tissue of rats to methacrylate resin-based sealer (EndoREZ), epoxy resin-based sealer (AH Plus), and zinc oxide-eugenol sealer (EndoFill). Polyethylene tubes containing the test materials were implanted in 18 rats. After 7, 30, and 60 days, tissues were collected for biopsy and fixed and processed for histologic evaluation. Observations were made of the cellular inflammatory component, the fibrous condensation, and the abscess formation. Comparisons between groups and times were made with the Friedman and Kruskall-Wallis tests. EndoREZ and EndoFill sealers showed a more intense and longer-lasting inflammation. With AH Plus, the inflammatory reaction showed a tendency to diminish over time. The only group to show a statistically significant reduction in inflammation during the 60-day period was the control group. None of the materials tested proved to have ideal characteristics for biocompatibility. (J Endod 2009;35:229-232)