Conventional to advanced endodontics: Use of bioactive materials

Endodontic material should have bioactive properties to achieve proper seal not only in the apical area but also in the coronal part. Conventional endodontic materials have shown promising results over a period of time. However, some limitations are associated with them mainly related to sealing with radicular dentin and at the apical area. These shortcomings can be fulfilled by using bioactive materials and incorporation of these materials with conventional endodontic materials, i.e., sealers, obturating materials, and retrograde filling materials. Recently, bioactive materials, mainly amorphous calcium phosphate (ACP), hydroxyapatite, tricalcium phosphates, bioactive glass, calcium-silicates, etc., have gained interest in restorative dentistry. However, it is questionable, which material can provide the required properties. In this chapter, various type of bioceramic materials (second generation biomaterials) are discussed in detail. Currently, one of the most exciting progress in endodontics is regenerative, and because of this, endodontists are at the forefront of this cutting-edge research. The concept of tissue engineering in dentistry was fulfilled by regenerative endodontics. The chapter provides in-depth information related to the use of various bioactive materials in endodontics as sealers, obturating materials, and their application in regenerative endodontics.