Evaluation of the physicochemical properties of intracanal medications used in traumatized teeth

Aim: The aim of the present study was to evaluate the solubility, flow and radiopacity of Calen (SS White Artigos Dentários Ltd, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil), Calen with zinc oxide (Calen/ZnO), calcium hydroxide + zinc oxide + 2% chlorhexidine (CH/ZnO/CHX), Calplus and Ultracal XS. Methods: 28 bovine incisor specimens were standardized, instrumented and filled with pastes with the aid of a centrix syringe. To assess solubility, the root canals of acrylic teeth (N = 10) were filled with the previously mentioned pastes and scanned by using micro–computed tomography before (initial) and after 7 days of immersion in ultrapure water. The solubility of each specimen was the difference between the initial and final volume. Flow properties were analysed according to the ISO 6876/2012 standard. Radiopacity was radiographically analysed by using Image J software. Data were submitted to analysis of variance and Tukey’s test (alpha 5%). Results: CH/ZnO/CHX and Calplus presented similar values regarding radiopacity. The group composed of Calen paste showed higher flow values. As for solubility, CH/ZnO/ CHX showed lower volume loss, but there was no statistical difference compared to other medications. Conclusion: The medication composed of calcium hydroxide, zinc oxide and 2% chlorhexidine is a suitable alternative for use in traumatized teeth.