Root Canal Sealer
A cementing agent used in conjunction with a core filling material to seal the root canal system and occlude accessory canals and irregularities.
Full Definition
Root canal sealers are biocompatible cements applied alongside gutta-percha or other core materials during obturation to ensure a fluid-tight seal of the root canal space. Common formulations include zinc oxide–eugenol-based, epoxy resin-based, calcium silicate-based, and bioceramic sealers. They flow into lateral canals, anastomoses, and dentinal tubules that the core material cannot reach. Editors reviewing endodontic procedure notes should not use 'sealer' and 'cement' interchangeably without clinical context, as cement may imply post cementation. The sealer's composition is clinically significant and should be accurately transcribed.
Usage
Usage note: Do not shorten to 'cement' without qualification; this risks confusion with luting cements used in restorative dentistry.
In Context
- "The case notes specified AH Plus, an epoxy resin-based root canal sealer, used in combination with warm vertical compaction." — Endodontic case report
- "Ensure 'sealer' is not edited to 'filler' — sealers and core filling materials serve distinct roles in obturation." — Journal of Endodontics manuscript