Effect of 2% chlorhexidine gel as an intracanal medication on the apical seal of the root-canal system

The purpose of this study was to determine what effect intracanal medications might have on the apical seal of the root-canal system. Forty-two teeth were cleaned and shaped in a crown-down manner to a size #50 K-file. The teeth were divided into three groups: (A) immediate obturation; (B) intracanal placement of calcium hydroxide placed for 14 days; and (C) 2% chlorhexidine gel placed for 14 days. After 14 days, these materials were removed using copious irrigation and obturation was completed on groups B and C. Obturation was performed using the continuous wave of condensation technique using AH Plus sealer in all groups. Leakage was evaluated 60 days after obturation by using a fluid-filtration device. Using the one-way ANOVA test, there was no statistically significant difference in leakage between the three groups. Under the conditions of this study, 2% chlorhexidine gel and calcium hydroxide paste did not adversely affect the apical seal of the root-canal system.