Calcium hydroxide removal: cleanliness ability of different techniques

Objectives: This study evaluated cleanliness ability of three techniques for calcium hydroxide paste removal. Methods: Thirty five roots of extracted maxillary human molars were hydrated and instrumented to #30 with FOUSP endodontic technique. The canals were dried with paper points, filled with calcium hydroxide paste, radiographed and sealed. The especimens were stored in an incubator at 37°C in 100% humidity for 14 days and then randomly divided in three groups of 10. G1: canals were instrumented again with Endo-PTC cream, sodium hypoclorite solution and EDTA-T.G2: new instrumentation like G1 group and before final irrigation, an ultrasonically activation with a #15 k-file for 60s. G3: the samples were instrumented again only with destilled water ultrasonically activated. The roots were split longitudinally, prepared for SEM evaluation of the last 3 mm and analysed with Scion Image program that measured calcium hydroxide particles larger than 5ìm. Results: Data were recorded, analysed statiscally and significant differences were observed between the groups. Conclusions: The authors concluded that ultrasound and EDTA-T association produced better calcium hydroxide removal