The solubility of a zinc oxide eugenol root canal sealer (Endofil) in normal saline solution at different time intervals

Background : The solubility of the root canal sealers is undesirable, because the process of dissolution may result in gaps and voids along the sealer-dentine or sealer-gutta percha interface. The aim of this study was to assess the solubility of zinc oxide based sealer (Endofil) in normal saline solution at different time intervals. Materials and methods : Fifty standardized plastic ring moulds were constructed and filled with Endofil sealer. The specimens were allowed to dry for 24h then weighed to the nearest 0.0001g .The samples were divided randomly into 5 groups and immersed in normal saline solution for 1,7,14,28 and 56 days. The samples were removed from the solution after completing the specified immersion period and allowed to dry for 24h. Then they were weighed, the percentage weight loss was then determined. Results : The percentage weight loss was less that 3% for immersion periods not exceeding 14 days and increased up to 5.4% for the 56 days. The statistical analysis of the results revealed a non significant difference between 1 and 7 days immersion time groups, while the differences between other groups were statistically significant. Conclusion : Under the conditions of the present study, the Endofil sealer met the International Standard ISO requirement for at least 14 days. The solubility rate of the sealer increased gradually from the first day till the 56 th days, but it remained within the acceptable limits for only 14 days