Effects of sodium hypochlorite and chlorhexidine on microhardness and solubility of mineral trioxide aggregate and bioceramic putty

Abstract Context: Root perforation can lead to endodontic treatment failure, necessitating immediate repair with biocompatible materials such as mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA) and bioceramic putty. Exposure to sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl) and chlorhexidine (CHX) during subsequent endodontic procedures may affect the surface microhardness and solubility of these materials. Aims: To evaluate the effects of 5.25% NaOCl and 2% CHX on the microhardness and solubility of MTA and bioceramic putty. Settings and Design: An in vitro experimental laboratory study. Subjects and Methods: Thirty-six samples of Bio MTA+, Bio-C Repair, and CeraPutty ( n = 12 each) were prepared and incubated for 7 days to allow further material setting. Each material was then divided into two groups ( n = 6) according to the irrigating solution used (5.25% NaOCl with surfactant or 2% CHX). Microhardness was measured after incubation and after immersion in the respective irrigants, while solubility was evaluated based on the mass changes following 24-h immersion. Statistical Analysis Used: One-way analysis of variance followed by Tukey’s post hoc test. Results: All materials showed decreased microhardness after exposure to both irrigants. Bio MTA + exhibited the highest microhardness values, while Bio-C repair showed the smallest decrease, with no statistically significant differences among groups ( P > 0.05). Regarding solubility, Bio-C Repair presented significantly greater mass loss between materials ( P < 0.05). Conclusions: Exposure to 5.25% NaOCl and 2% CHX influenced the microhardness and solubility of MTA and bioceramic putty materials, with Bio MTA + and CeraPutty showing greater reduction in microhardness and Bio-C Repair exhibiting higher solubility.