Comparative pH and calcium ion release in newer calcium silicate-based root canal sealers

Abstract

Aims: The aim of this study is to compare and evaluate pH and calcium ion release in newer calcium silicate-based root canal sealers. Methodology: Polyethylene tubes were cut into 35 tubes of equal sizes; with each tube measuring 10 mm length × 1 mm diameter. The tubes were pre-weighted using digital weighing balance machine to allow a similar weight of each tube. The polyethylene tubes were divided into four groups according to the materials with which they were filled. Group 1 (n = 5) control group, Group 2 (n = 10) sealapex, Group 3 (n = 10) mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA) fillapex, and Group 4 (n = 10) White MTA. The tubes after being packed with the respective sealers were placed inside polypropylene flasks containing 10 ml of deionized water. The flask was closed and stored at a constant temperature of 37°C during all the evaluation period. At 24 h, 7 days and 1 month, pH and calcium ion released was measured using pH meter and atomic absorption spectrophotometer, respectively. Results: At 24 h, White MTA showed the highest pH (8.52) and highest calcium (Ca ++) release (14.7). At 7 days and 28 days, MTA fillapex showed significantly higher pH (8.64; 8.7) and Ca ++ release (10.30; 18.60) than the other two groups. Conclusion: Although at 24 h, the new calcium silicate-based root canal sealer, MTA fillapex showed the least Ca ++ release but over longer time intervals, i.e., at 7 days and 28 days, MTA fillapex showed significantly higher pH and Ca ++ release than both White MTA and sealapex.