Assessment of diffusion of hydroxyl and calcium ions of root canal filling materials in primary teeth.

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the diffusion of hydroxyl (OH-) and calcium (Ca+2) of 2 intracanal calcium hydroxide-based medications through the root dentin and cementum of primary teeth.

Methods: Forty roots were selected and a single operator instrumented the canals. The irrigation was performed with a 1% sodium hypochlorite solution, and a final irrigation used 17% ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid solution. The teeth were divided into 3 groups: (1) group 1 (N=15)- thickened calcium hydroxide paste blended with propylene glycol paste; (2) group 2 (N=15)-Calen; and (3) group 3 (N=10)-no medication. Diffusion of the OH-ions was determined using a digital pH meter, and diffusion of Ca+2 ions was determined through atomic absorption spectrometry at baseline, 24 hours, 7 days, 15 days, and 30 days later.

Results: Two-way analysis of variance and Tukey's test revealed that Group 1 achieved significantly higher pH values (P<.01), followed by Groups 2 and 3. There was a statistically significant difference between groups (P<.01) in the amount of Ca+2 ions released; group 1 had the highest diffusion values, followed by group 2, both with peak diffusion at 7 days.

Conclusions: Thickened calcium hydroxide paste blended with propylene glycol paste achieved the greatest diffusion of hydroxyl and calcium through the dentin and cementum of primary teeth.