Analysis of tooth staining by endodontic medication in root canal therapy using spectrophotometry

The assessment of the discoloration caused by calcium hydroxide, triple antibiotic paste, and chlorhexidine gel when used as intra-canal medicaments in teeth undergoing root canal treatment is of interest. The study measured the discoloration over seven and fourteen days using a spectrophotometer. After obtaining ethical clearance, ninety anterior teeth requiring root canal therapy were selected based on eligibility criteria. Using basic randomization, participants were split up into three groups, each consisting of thirty patients. The colorimeter was used to measure preoperative, one and two weeks following the medication's removal. All groups showed significant discoloration, with 2% chlorhexidine gel (p≤0.03) and triple antibiotic paste (p≤0.02) causing the highest discoloration in the central region of teeth. The discoloration was inversely correlated with the remaining dentin thickness. Thus, intracanal medicaments used for endodontic treatment cause tooth discolouration.