EFFECT OF VARIOUS ZINC-OXIDE MATERIALS AS ROOT-END FILLINGS ON HEALING AFTER REPLANTATION

This study examined the effect of various zinc oxide materials as root -end fillings of teeth in a replantation model. A total of 35 molar te eth were used from 19 monkeys. After:extraction, root ends were resect ed, the canals contaminated with oral bacteria, root-end cavities prep ared and fillings placed prior to replantation. After 8 weeks;the teet h and surrounding law were removed and prepared for histological exami nation. Twelve roots were filled with IRM plus dentine chips, and six with Cavit; the tissue response around root ends filled with these mat erials as assessed by inflammation was similar to that previously repo rted to IRM and Super EBA cement and was characterized by little or no inflammation of limited extent. In contrast, more severe inflammation was observed around root ends filled with plain zinc oxide-eugenol or Kalzinol; however, the reaction was neither as severe nor as extensiv e as that to amalgam root-end fillings. Giant cells were observed most often on the surface of fillings with Cavit and zinc oxide-eugenol. I t is concluded that the tissue response to IRM with or without added d entine. Super EBA and Cavit was similar and mild; it was less severe t han that to zinc oxid-eugenol and Kalzinol. All these materials had a much more favourable response than amalgam.