Evaluation of effect of calcium hydroxide as a root canal dressing material on dentin micro tensile fracture strength in primary teeth: An in-vitro study

Abstract

Background: Root canal treatment in primary teeth is indicated when the radicular pulp exhibits clinical signs of irreversible pulpitis or pulp necrosis while the roots show minimal or no resorption. The present study was conducted to evaluate the effect of calcium hydroxide as a root canal dressing material on dentin microtensile fracture strength in primary teeth. Materials and methods: 60 human maxillary primary incisor were divided into two experimental groups. The teeth were immersed in saline at room temperature for 7 (group I), 30 (group II) and 90 days (group III). The saline was changed with a fresh sterile solution once a week. In group IV, 15 teeth with root canals filled with sterile saline and the orifices sealed with IRM. Microtensile fracture strength was measured in Mechanical tester Lloyd testing machine. Results: The mean microtensile fracture strength in group I was 30.5 MPa, in group II was 25.7 MPA, in group III was 92 MPA and in group IV was 34.9 MPa. The difference was significant (P< 0.05). Conclusion: Calcium hydroxide placed in root canals for an extended time had a significantly negative effect on root strength.