Calcium ion diffusion from calcium hydroxide-containing materials in endodontically-treated teeth: an in vitro study

Area of Science:

• Endodontics
• Dental Materials Science
• Calcium Hydroxide Research

Background:

• Calcium hydroxide is utilized in endodontics for its potential to release calcium ions.
• Understanding calcium ion diffusion is crucial for evaluating the efficacy of root canal treatments.

Purpose of the Study:

• To quantify and assess the duration of calcium ion diffusion from calcium hydroxide-based root canal sealers and medicaments.
• To investigate the influence of the apical foramen and dentinal tubules on calcium ion diffusion in endodontically treated teeth.

Main Methods:

• An in vitro study involving 88 single-rooted teeth prepared using a modified double flared, balanced force technique.
• Teeth were divided into groups treated with non-setting calcium hydroxide or a calcium hydroxide-containing sealer, with and without artificial root defects.
• Calcium ion diffusion was measured over various time points up to 8 weeks.

Main Results:

• Significantly greater calcium ion diffusion was observed from non-setting calcium hydroxide groups compared to sealer groups (P < 0.05).
• Teeth with a patent apical foramen exhibited higher calcium ion diffusion than those with artificial resorptive defects (P < 0.05).

Conclusions:

• Non-setting calcium hydroxide medicaments facilitate more substantial calcium ion diffusion than calcium hydroxide-containing sealers.
• Apical patency enhances calcium ion diffusion through root canal systems, impacting treatment outcomes.