Impact of Solvent Properties of Cold-Pressed and Steam-Distilled Orange Oils on GuttaFlow2 and Gutta-Percha.

Introduction: Root canal retreatment often employs organic solvents like chloroform, eucalyptol, and orange oil. However, studies comparing their effectiveness yield inconsistent results. The quantity of d-limonene, a crucial component in orange oil, varies depending on the oil production method. Cold-pressed orange oil has been observed to contain the highest d-limonene levels. This study investigates the comparative solvent effects of cold-pressed and steam-hydrodistilled orange oils on gutta-percha and GuttaFlow2, typically used components in root canal fillings.

Methods: Thirty-two discs (10 mm in diameter and 2 mm in thickness) were prepared using GuttaFlow and gutta-percha cones. The samples were weighed and then randomly divided into four groups (n=8) based on the type of solvent used. Each group was immersed in its respective solvent for 10 minutes. After exposure to the solvent, the samples were reweighed to determine the amount of material removed.

Results: The weight loss in the group treated with cold-pressed orange oil on gutta-percha was significantly higher than in other groups (GuttaFlow2 + cold-pressed orange oil, gutta-percha + steam hydrodistilled orange oil, GuttaFlow2 + steam hydrodistilled orange oil) (p<0.001, p<0.001, and p<0.001).

Conclusion: According to the study findings, cold-pressed orange oil demonstrated a higher solvent effect on both GuttaFlow2 and traditional gutta-percha compared to steam-hydrodistilled orange oil. This indicates the significant impact of the production method of orange oil on its efficacy as a solvent in root canal therapy retreatment.