Use of vitamin C in delayed tooth replantation

This study evaluated microscopically the effects of root surface treatment with three different solutions in delayed rat teeth replantation. Central incisors from 30 rats (Rattus norvegicus, albinus Wistar) were extracted and left on a bench for 6 h. The pulps were extirpated and root canals were irrigated with 1% sodium hypochlorite. After endodontic treatment, the root surfaces of all teeth were submitted to a 10-min treatment with 1% sodium hypochlorite, changed every 5 min. The teeth were then rinsed with saline for 10 min and assigned to 3 groups with ten specimens each. Groups I, II and III were treated, respectively, with 2% acidulated-phosphate sodium fluoride, vitamin C solution and effervescent vitamin C (2 g, Redoxon. After root surface treatment, the teeth were filled with calcium hydroxide and replanted. The animals were sacrificed after 10 and 60 days. Group I (fluoride) presented the largest areas of replacement resorption and ankylosis. Comparing both vitamin C groups, Group III (effervescent vitamin C) yielded better results, showing more areas of ankylosis and replacement resorption than areas of inflammatory resorption.