The aim of this research, based on extensive literature review, is to present the main characteristics of the most frequently used sealers for root canal obturation. When using the ideal sealer, complete sealing of the root canal space is achieved. In this way the entry of microorganisms that would initiate an inflammatory process and the need for re-treatment, in the root canal system of endodontically treated teeth, is prevented. The ideal sealer has antimicrobial activity and does not cause an inflammatory response in the tissues around the root of the tooth. Sealers fill the small voids between the dentinal wall of the root canal and the material used for filling. Because of this reason, their physical properties have great importance for the quality of the root canal filling. Their three-dimensional stability is an important characteristic that largely determines whether endodontic treatment will be compromised and whether the tooth will last in the oral cavity as long as possible. Root canal sealers are classified according to their composition as zinc oxide-eugenol (ZOE), calcium hydroxide, glass ionomer, silicone, epoxy resin, and bioceramic-based. The most frequently used ones are the resin based. Their limited biocompatibility when unset, together with the possible mutagenicity, cytotoxicity as well as hydrophobicity are the reason for the development of new sealer types —calcium silicate-based. They tend to be the main type used in the practice of modern endodontists. Comparing sealers, we tried to describe some of their qualities—setting time, sealing ability, solubility, biocompatibility, cytotoxicity, and antimicrobial activity. Representatives of all groups are described, summarizing the most important properties that are necessary for the exact root canal obturation.
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