Calcium ion diffusion levels from MTA and apexcal in simulated external root resorption at middle third of the root

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to investigate diffusion of calcium ions through exposed dentinal tubules following intracanal application of MTA and ApexCal. Thirty extracted anterior teeth were divided into three groups (n = 10): Group I: root canal prepared teeth with unfilled canals served as control; Group II: root canal space filled with MTA; Group III: root canal space filled with ApexCal. The teeth were decoronated, and root canal prepared to its working length and irrigated with EDTA and NaOCl. To simulate external root resorption, defects were created on the external surface of the root at the middle thirds. MTA/ApexCal was introduced into the canal and entrance sealed with IRM. The teeth were then coated with varnish except at the defect. Each tooth was immersed in a vial containing deionized water after which the release of Ca(2+)from the defects into the deionized water was measured at 1, 7, 12, 14, and 28 days. Ca(2+)concentrations of the immersion media were measured using a spectrometer. The post hoc-Bonferroni Alpha test (with mean difference significant at the 0.05 level) was done to statistically analyse the results using spss 11.5 software for Windows. The results showed greater calcium release by ApexCal than MTA with a significant increase with time. Within the experimental conditions of the present study APEX CAL may potentially be used in cases of root resorption.