Effect of gutta-percha solvents at different temperatures on the calcium, phosphorus and magnesium levels of human root dentin.

The aim of this study in vitro investigation was to evaluate the alterations caused by warmed gutta-percha solvents on the calcium, phosphorus and magnesium levels of root dentin. Extracted human anterior teeth, whose crowns and apical root thirds had been removed were used as root dentin specimens. The roots were sectioned longitudinally into two segments, cleaned and dried. Segments were divided into 12 groups (n=12). In 6 groups, the specimens received treatment with the following solvents at room temperature (22 degrees C): Chloroform, xylene, eucalyptol, orange oil, halothane and saline (control). Within each group, the specimens were further subgrouped into two to be incubated (100% humidity at 37 degrees C) for 5 and 10 min, respectively, following treatment with the solvents. The remaining six groups were treated with the same solvents which had been previously warmed to body temperature (37 degrees C) and received the same experimental procedures. The levels of calcium, phosphorus and magnesium in each specimen were analysed using energy dispersive spectrometric microanalysis. Statistical analysis of the readings showed that neither warming of the solvents nor prolonged incubation (treatment) time was capable of altering the histochemical composition of cut root dentin surfaces.