In vitro evaluation of effect of various endodontic solutions on selected physical properties of white mineral trioxide aggregate.

During endodontic therapy various irrigating solutions at different concentrations and duration are used. These chemical solutions may affect the setting reaction of mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA). The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl) (5.25%), chlorhexidine gluconate (CHX) (2%), ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) solution (17%) and BioPure MTAD on surface micro-hardness and flexural strength of white MTA. Twenty-five disk-shaped and 25 bar-shaped specimens were divided into five groups and were stored under distilled water, NaOCl (5.25%), chlorhexidine CHX (2%), EDTA solution (17%) and BioPure MTAD for 7 days. The micro-hardness of disk specimens was measured while the flexural strength was tested on bar specimens. EDTA and BioPure MTAD significantly reduced the hardness and flexural strength as compared with other groups. Under distilled water strength remained high; therefore, a final flush with distilled water before placement of MTA is advocated, especially if decalcifying agents are used during the clinical procedure.