Biological, Radiographic and Clinical Evaluation of Various Inter-Visit Root Canal Dressings in Retreatment Cases

Calcium silicate-based bioceramic materials have gained attention for their bioactivity and biocompatibility, acting through hydration with calcium hydroxide release followed by hydroxyapatite formation that promotes healing. Bio-C Temp is an example, characterized by high calcium ion release, alkaline pH, adequate radiopacity, and good biocompatibility.

Combining calcium hydroxide with sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl) has been proposed. NaOCl provides rapid and potent antimicrobial and tissue-dissolving effects, while Ca(OH)₂ offers prolonged action. Both agents retain their properties when combined, and this combination may produce a synergistic effect that enhances disinfection and reduces chair time in two-visit treatment protocols.

Calcium hydroxide ICM being the most widely used due to its high alkalinity, antimicrobial properties, endotoxin neutralization, and ability to reduce periapical inflammation. It is applied as an aqueous mixture or polyethylene glycol-based paste and provides a slow but sustained antimicrobial effect. Despite their benefits, Ca(OH)₂ medicaments re limited by their solubility, susceptibility to tissue fluids, potential to weaken tooth structure over time, and reduced effectiveness against resistant microorganisms such as Candida Albicans and Enterococcus Faecalis.