In vitro evaluation of residual formaldehyde in root canals

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to assess the amount of formaldehyde left inside root canals dried out with tiny absorbing paper points that were kept in an environment with formaldehyde drops. Paper points treated with 2,4-Dinitrophenylhydrazine were used to capture this substance from inside the root canals, and then, underwent an analysis by High Performance Liquid Chromatography in order to quantify the residual formaldehyde. The results showed that when paper points are exposed to formaldehyde, they leave a remaining quantity of this substance inside the root canals which is considered potentially carcinogenic by some authors.