In vitro study of essential oils efficacy as alternative solvents in endodontic retreatment

Introduction. The aim of this study was to investigate the solubility of gutta-percha points and various endodontic sealants in essential oils. Materials and method. Ninety-six gutta-percha points were divided into the four groups of 24 samples for every essential oil and subsequently divided into the three subgroups corresponding to the immersion times (2,10 and 15 min). The post-immersion amount was obtained for each. Endodontic sealers AHplus, Acroseal, Endomethasone N were included in the research. Samples were treated with corresponding oil for 10 min. Each sample was measured and the amount was obtained. Results. Orange oil was the most effective in dissolving gutta-percha compared to other tested essential oils (p < 0.05). Eucalyptol was more effective in dissolving gutta-percha than tea tree after 10 min (p < 0.05). There was no statistical significance in the effectiveness of essential oils in relation to the time of action (10 or 15 minutes) (p > 0.05). Most weight loss was recorded with Endomethasone for all solvents, but the highest in orange oil and tea tree, followed by eucalyptus and clove oil. Tea tree dissolved AH Plus more efficiently compared to Acroseal. Conclusion. Essential oils showed promising results in dissolving gutta-percha and sealers.