Comparitive Evaluation of pH and Calcium Ion Release in Newer Calcium Silicate Based Root Canal Sealers

Abstract

Introduction: The aim of root canal treatment is to provide three-dimensional obturation of the root canal
system to prevent the entry of bacteria and fluid. Recent Calcium Silicate Sealers (CSS) have been claimed
to be excellent sealers with alkaline pH, low solubility and providing good sealing owing to their setting
expansion. To date, there are not enough publications that prove their physiochemical behavior.
Aim: The aim of this study is to evaluate and compare both pH and calcium ion release in newer calcium
silicate-based root canal sealers.
Material and Method: We compared 3 commonly used calcium silicate sealers which were categorised
as 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 polyethylene tubes were prepared and materials were
filled according to the groups made. The tubes were packed and flask was closed and stored at a constant
temperature of 37°C during all the evaluation period at different intervals of 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 and highest calcium (Ca++) release. MTA fillapex
maintained an alkaline ph even after 1 month of the study. MTA Fillapex showed the highest Ca++ release
even after 30 days that gradually increased aswell.
Conclusion: MTA Fillapex proves to show better alkalinizing ability and Ca++ release of as compared to
White MTA and (Sealapex) with increase in time intervals can be explained by greater solubility of MTA
Fillapex with time as compared to the other two materials.