Assessment of effect of 1% phytic acid and 17% ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid on calcium ion loss of radicular dentin: An ex vivo study

Aim: The purpose of this study was to evaluate and compare the effectiveness of phytic acid and ethylendiamine tetraacetic acid (EDTA) in the removal of calcium ion from radicular dentin during endodontic procedure. Materials and Methods: Twenty-five single-rooted mandibular premolar teeth were decoronated, and the roots were split longitudinally into two halves. Among obtained specimens, 45 specimens were randomly selected and divided into three groups (n = 15): Group 1 – distilled water, Group 2 – 17% EDTA, and Group 3 – 1% phytic acid. Samples in each group were immersed in the test solutions for specific time intervals, after which the same solution samples were subjected for the evaluation of amount of calcium ion release into the solution by Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer. Data were analyzed using the one-way analysis of variance test. Results: The use of 17% EDTA resulted in more calcium ion loss as compared to 1% phytic acid and distilled water. Conclusion: One percent phytic acid seems to be an appropriate irrigating solution because of its less demineralizing effect as compared to 17% EDTA on radicular dentin.