Chemical analysis of the flocculate formed by the association of sodium hypochlorite and chlorhexidine.

OBJECTIVE The association of chlorhexidine (CHX) and sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl) to enhance their chemical properties during root canal biomechanical preparation can lead to a brown flocculate being formed. Therefore, this study evaluated the metals present in their association by atomic absorption spectrophotometry, and evaluated a possible reagent that could dissolve the flocculate, allowing its clinical use. STUDY DESIGN Five concentrations of CHX and NaOCl were mixed (2.5% NaOCl + 0.2% CHX, 2% CHX + 0.5% NaOCl, 2% CHX + 5% NaOCl, 0.2% CHX + 0.5% NaOCl, and 0.2% CHX + 5% NaOCl). Methanol and hexane, acetic acid, and vinegar were evaluated to dissolve the flocculate. RESULTS A flocculate was formed with all proportions and concentrations. Spectrophotometry analysis showed the presence of Ca, Fe, and Mg. CONCLUSION It can be concluded that the association proposed led to the formation of brown flocculate regardless of concentration and proportion.