The focus of this study was to examine the staining potential of calcium hydroxide (Ca(OH)₂) on tooth structure following the removal of AH26 root canal sealer.

Fifty maxillary anterior teeth were prepared and obturated with AH26 and gutta percha. The sealers were then removed 24 hours later and the teeth were randomly divided into two groups. Ca(OH)₂ was then placed in the root canals of the first group of teeth as a medicament and camphorated monochlorophenol (CMCP) was placed in the second group of teeth after the filling material was removed. The color of the external tooth surfaces was determined before tooth preparation and two weeks after the placement of the medicaments. The Z test was used for statistical analysis.

All experimental teeth showed varying degrees of coronal discoloration with the Ca(OH)₂ group showing more discoloration than the CMCP group (p<0.05).

Using Ca(OH)₂ as a medicament after removing AH26 caused progressive discoloration of the teeth, whereas using CMCP caused only slight discoloration.

To avoid staining of the treated tooth, AH26 root canal sealer must be completely removed from the dentin walls before using a medicament.

Tinaz AC, Kivanç BH, Görgül G. Staining Potential of Calcium Hydroxide and Monochlorophenol Following Removal of AH26 Root Canal Sealer. J Contemp Dent Pract 2008 March; (9)3:056-063.