In vitro release of calcium and hydroxyl ions from two types of calcium hydroxide preparation.

Non-setting and setting pastes are the most common forms of calcium hydroxide, used in endodontics. The aim of this study was to investigate the differences in the availability of calcium and hydroxyl ions from some commercial preparations of both types. In vitro released calcium and hydroxyl ions were determined by a potentiometric method, after diffusion through sintered glass. The non-setting pastes evaluated were Calcipulpe, Calxyl Red, Calxyl Blue and Cinacal; while setting base materials were represented by Dycal, Nu-Cap and Reolit. The data obtained showed significantly higher availability of calcium and hydroxyl ions from non-setting pastes, compared with 'alkaline cements' (P < 0.05). Great variations in the amount of released ions were also found among samples of the same material.