Comparison of orange oil and chloroform as Gutta-Percha solvents in endodontic retreatment

Objective: To compare the efficacy of gutta-percha removal achieved with simple mechanical technique using two different solvents. Materials and methods: It was an in vitro experimental study conducted at the Aga Khan University Hospital, Karachi, Pakistan on 27 extracted human molars divided into two groups by alternate sampling technique. The teeth were prepared by manual filing and obturated with gutta-percha and calcium hydroxide sealer. Two drops of the assigned solvent were placed on the orifice of the obturated canal and Gates Glidden drills #1, 2 and 3 were used for removal of coronal gutta-percha. Manual filing was done for removal of remaining gutta-percha and the solvent was used in drops until needed. Postoperative periapical radiographs were taken to visualize the remaining gutta-percha left in the canals. Descriptive statistics (mean and SD) of the variables such as tooth type, obturation length and canal curvatures were determined. Chi-square and independent sample t-tests were applied and level of significance was set at 0.05. Results: There was 5.19 (3.8) mm of remaining gutta-percha in the orange oil group and 5.37 (4.2) mm in the chloroform group (p = 0.90). Conclusion: There is no statistically significant difference between the orange oil and chloroform when used as solvent for removing gutta-percha.