Influence of irrigating solutions on the hydration of calcium silicate-based dental biomaterials: An in vitro study

Introduction: Calcium silicate-based root canal sealers exhibit biocompatibility and bioactivity. The aim of this study was to evaluate and compare the influence of irrigating solutions on the hydration property of tricalcium silicate-based sealers. Methods: In an in vitro model, each group of sealer cylinders, Group 1 (Dia-Root Bio Sealer) and Group 2 (CeraSeal), was divided into four subgroups (n = 22) based on the irrigating solutions: Subgroup A, 3% sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl) (Parcan, Septodont, France); Subgroup B, combination of NaOCl and etidronic acid (EA) (Twin Kleen, Maarc Dental, India); Subgroup C, chitosan-based endo-radiopaque solution (CERS) (Patented product, India); and Subgroup D, normal saline (negative control). Each sample was covered in a gauze soaked with 20 mL of irrigating solutions for 30 min. Samples were examined for morphology using scanning electron microscopy with energy-dispersive spectroscopy, for phases formed using Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, and for calcium ion release using inductively coupled plasma technique. Results: The irrigating solutions influenced the hydration property of the bioceramic sealers used, and different amounts of calcium ions were seen in each group. Samples immersed in CERS and saline released considerably more calcium, which was significantly higher ( P < 0.001) than NaOCl and NaOCl + EA solutions. Conclusion: CERS positively influenced the bioactivity of tricalcium silicate-based sealers. CeraSeal leached more calcium ions than Dia-Root Bio Sealer.