Effectiveness of 2% chlorhexidine gel compared to two solvents commonly used in endodontic retreatment

Claudiani Saraiva Caetano, Maíra do Prado, Brenda Paula Figueiredo de Almeida Gomes, Ezilmara Leonor Rolim de Sousa

Objective: The present study has compared the action of 2% chlorhexidine gel to two solvents commonly used in endodontic retreatment, xylol and eucalyptol, regarding the cleaning of the root canal walls. Methods: Forty-five human single-rooted teeth were randomly divided into three groups. The teeth were instrumented, filled and radiographed before being stored in an oven at 37°C for 60 days. The filling material was removed from root canals according to the following techniques: Kerr and Hedströem files with xylol (G1), eucalyptol (G2), and 2% chlorhexidine gel (G3). After removing the filling material, the teeth were radiographed in ortho- and mesio-radial directions. The radiographs were analyzed by three double-blinded examiners for the presence of remaining filling material. Next, the teeth were longitudinally fractured and the resulting faces were digitally scanned. The Image Tool software was used to assess the amount of remaining filling material, and data were statistically analyzed. Results: With regard to the radiographic analysis, no statistically significant differences were observed between the groups studied (i.e. chlorhexidine, xylol and eucalyptol). However, when digitalized images were analyzed, xylol was found to be significantly more efficient for cleaning the root canals compared to 2% chlorhexidine gel. Conclusion: It can be stated that xylol was the most effective solution for removal of filing material compared to 2% chlorhexidine gel and eucalyptol.

Keywords: Retreatment. Chlorhexidine. Solvents. Root canal preparation.

How to cite: Caetano CS, Prado M, Gomes BPFA, Sousa ELR. Ef- fectiveness of 2% chlorhexidine gel compared to two solvents commonly used in endodontic retreatment. Dental Press Endod. 2012 Oct-Dec;2(4):15-9.

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