Effects of chelating agents and sodium hypochlorite on mineral content of root dentin

Effects of combined and single use of EDTA, RC-Prep, and NaOCI on mineral content of root dentin were evaluated in vitro using energy dispersion spectrometric microanalysis. Thirty-six standardized midroot dentin specimens obtained from human anterior teeth were used. Specimens were polished and divided into six experimental groups. The first two groups were treated with EDTA or RC-Prep followed by NaOCI irrigation. Groups 3 to 5 were treated with EDTA, RC-Prep, and NaOCI, respectively. The last group was irrigated with saline solution as a control. Levels of calcium, phosphorus, and magnesium were measured in the root dentin after treatments. The results showed that (I) EDTA combined with NaOCI irrigation as final flush and NaOCI alone changed the calcium/phosphorus ratio of root dentin significantly (p < 0.05); and (ii) there was a significant increase in the magnesium level after the use of chelating agent combined with NaOCI (p < 0.05). It was concluded that using NaOCI irrigation as final flush altered the effectiveness of chelating agents on root dentin.