Comparative Analysis of the Properties of Temporary Cement – An In Vitro Study

Abstract

Introduction: Microbial eradication from the pulpal spaces plays a pivotal role in the success of endodontic treatment. The intricate internal tooth anatomy challenges the clinician at every instance - be it the cleaning, shaping, or complete restoration of the root canal system. Aim: To assess and compare sealing ability, water sorption and solubility of temporary restorative materials. Material and Method: Thirty extracted premolars were endodontically treated and restored with temporary restorations, 10 teeth in each group. The groups were - Cavit G, Zinconol, Coltosol F. Teeth were thermocycled and sectioned. Microleakage was tested with Methylene blue dye under stereomicroscope. For solubility and sorption analysis, disc-shaped specimens (10 each) were prepared and restored with temporary cements and divided into three groups, depending on the cement used. Specimens were stored in desiccator; dry mass (m1) was obtained. After storing in distilled water, mass after saturation (m2) and thereafter constant dry mass was obtained (m3). Water sorption and solubility was determined by prescribed formulas. Kruskal Wallis and Dunn’s Post-hoc test were used for microleakage. For water sorption and solubility Kolmogorov-Smirnov normality test, ANOVA and Tukey’s post hoc test were used. Result: Coltosol exhibited least microleakage followed by Cavit and Zinconol. Cavit exhibited maximum sorption and solubility, followed by Coltosol and Zinconol. Conclusion: Coltosol exhibited the least amount of microleakage compared to Cavit and Zinconol. It also demonstrated intermediate level of sorption and solubility. Hence it can be recommended for use as a temporary restorative material during endodontic treatment.