Aim: The aim of the study was to study investigate the influence of calcium hydroxide used as intermediate medication on the quality of apical seal of a silicon based and an experimental resin based endodontic sealer.
Methods: Eighty endodontic canals were prepared and divided in four groups. Calcium hydroxide was applied in groups 2 and 4. After 7 days, medication was removed and canals were filled with gutta-percha and RoekoSeal Automix (groups 1 and 2) or Scotchbond MP+C&B cement B (groups 3 and 4). Specimens were placed into India ink, cleared and analyzed under a stereomicroscope to investigate apical leakage.
Results: Specimens that received calcium hydroxide medication showed leakage means higher than the corresponding untreated ones (i.e. group 1< group 2 and group 3< group 4; P<0.001).
Conclusions: Calcium hydroxide interferes with the sealing ability of silicon based sealer, since it frequently remains entrapped within the endodontic space even after careful removal procedures.