Physicochemical Properties of Calcium Silicate Cements for Endodontic Treatment

Introduction: The purpose of this study was to examine the physicochemical properties of novel calcium silicate cements (CSCs) prepared by using a sol-gel method. Methods: The compressive strength, morphology, and phase composition of various cements were evaluated after mixing with water, in addition to setting time and pH value. Results: As solid phases, the sol-gel-derived powders mainly consisted of beta-dicalcium silicate. Setting times for cements mixed with water ranged from 12-42 minutes and were lower for cements with higher starting CaO content. The compressive strength of the CSCs ranged from 0.3-15.2 MPa; these values were significantly different (P < .05). Calcium silicate hydrate (C-S-H) was the principal phase that formed in the hydration process. The CSCs' pH values changed from an initial 11 to a high of 13. Conclusions: CSCs display advantageously shortened setting times and might have potential for endodontic use, although further tests are necessary to confirm this. (J Endod 2009;35:1288-1291)