Study on Release of Formaldehyde from Endodontic Sealers

Periapical alterations or irritations resulting from root canal therapy may be caused by overinstrumentation,
infection or adverse effects from substances liberated from root canal filling
materials. Chemothera-peutic agents containing formaldehyde are commonly used in the treatment of
dental disease. Formaldehyde is known to local irritation and skin sensitization following acute and
subacute exposure. The objective of this study was to evaluate AH 26, endomethasone, N2, AH plus,
diaket, forfenan and roeko seal automix (RSA) for the presence of the formal-dehyde. Sealer's
powder and liquid were analyzed before and after mixing formaldehyde analysis was done using highperformance
liquid chromato-graphy with thermo-separation products spectra system and photodiode
assay. Analysis showed that the AH 26, endomethasone, N2 powders and forfenan liquid contained
formaldehyde and and their mixture were releasing formaldehyde. It could not decetcted any
formaldehyde in AH plus, diaket and RSA samples. Because endodontic sealers can get into contact
with surrounding soft and hard tissues, they should have an acceptable biocompatibility. Sealers with
inferior biocompatibility, such as formaldehyde-releasing materials, should no longer be applicable in
practice because safer alternatives are available.