The evaluation of efficiency of various Calcium Hydroxide removal techniques from root canals

Calcium Hydroxide has been known by having superb antimicrobial properties, besides when it?s not removed from root canal, it may cause possible apical leakage of the obturated canal system. It can also prevent adhesion of resin bonding agent to dentin and resin based canal obturation by penetrating dentinal tubules.The purpose of this study was to evaluate the removal of calcium hydroxide from root canal with different irrigation solutions and agitation methods and to compare by direct visualisation and high definition photography.208 extracted maxiller and mandibular human canine teeth , divided into 2 main and 13 sub groups by 26 total. Main groups were smear layer positive (A) and smear layer negative (B). Sub groups were, distiled water, NaOCl, pre-heated NaOCl, NaOCl + EDTA as irrigation solution, and syringe irrigation, canal brush, PUI as agitation methods.Specimens were sectioned longitudinally along the lenght of the canals, after biomechanic preperation process with rotary system. Artificial grooves were formed at the root canal surfaces, and Ca(OH)2 placed into root canals. The teeth were stored at 37?C for 1 week. Root halves placed in specially prepared metal muffle system, and Ca(OH)2 removal techniques were applied. The results were obtained with groove scoring and digital photography methods.There was no statistically significant differencies between groups A and B, in terms of smear layer existence (p>0,05).Ca(OH)2 was removed with PUI groups most effectivelly, followed with canal brush and syringe groups. Group of PUI NaOCl + EDTA was the least Ca(OH)2 coated field of percentage between PUI groups.PUI may be the first choice at removal of Ca(OH)2 from root canals. Usage of NaOCl and EDTA as irrigation materials may increase removal efficiency of Ca(OH)2 .