Comparative evaluation of the cytotoxic effect of two different gutta percha solvents

Gutta percha solvents play an important role in removing filling materials from dentinal tubules, allowing irrigation solution to penetrate the tubules. The solvents should be biocompatible and have minimal effects on the viability of periapical tissues. Otherwise, they will result in intense inflammatory reactions and interfere with periapical healing. Aim This in vitro study was to evaluate and compare the cytotoxicity of two gutta percha solvents; grapefruit oil and orange oil. Biological testing was carried out on human fibroblasts that were retrieved from the cell bank and then cultured. Two gutta percha solvents (grapefruit oil and orange oil) were added to the cultured cells. Cell viability was evaluated using a WST-1 assay. The effect was evaluated after exposure to various concentrations at 24 h and 72 h. Statistical analysis was performed using two-way analysis of variance (ANOVA). Grapefruit oil had the most significant cytotoxicity followed by orange oil which had the least significant cytotoxicity. The cytotoxicity of the two solvents used was directly proportional to their concentration. Orange oil could be recommended as a solvent for gutta percha because of its low toxicity.