Optimization of Sodium Iodide-Based Root Filling Material for Clinical Applications: Enhancing Physicochemical Properties.

Premature loss of root canal-treated primary teeth has long been a concern in dentistry. To address this, researchers developed a sodium iodide-based root canal-filling material as an alternative to traditional iodoform-based materials. The goal of this study was to improve the physicochemical properties of the sodium iodide-based material to meet clinical use standards. To resolve high solubility issues in the initial formulation, researchers adjusted component ratios and added new ingredients, resulting in a new paste called L5. This study compared L5 with L0 (identical composition minus lanolin) and Vitapex as controls, conducting physicochemical and antibacterial tests. Results showed that L5 met all ISO 6876 standards, demonstrated easier injection and irrigation properties than Vitapex, and exhibited comparable antibacterial efficacy to Vitapex, which is currently used clinically. The researchers conclude that if biological stability is further verified, L5 could potentially be presented as a new option for root canal-filling materials in primary teeth.