Relative efficiency of solvents used in endodontics.

A root canal model was used to test the relative efficiency of various commonly used endodontic solvents including eucalyptol, eucalyptus oil, orange oil, chloroform, and xylene to dissolve or soften gutta-percha and several different types of sealers (Proco-Sol, AH26, and Sealapex). There was no significant difference in the ability of the solvents to dissolve gutta-percha and the zinc oxide-eugenol-based sealer Proco-Sol. The resin-based sealer, AH26, was only dissolved in chloroform and took considerable time (> 30 min). The calcium hydroxide-based sealer, Sealapex, could not be tested because it was found not to set at all unless in contact with air. All of the solvents for both Proco-Sol and gutta-percha produced clinically acceptable dissolving times.