Evaluation of cetylpyridinium chloride for infection control in storage solution

Storage solution is used in in vitro experimental studies to prevent dehydration of teeth collected immediately after extraction and to prevent bacterial and fungal growth in the storage media. The chemical nature of the storing agent may affect the tooth structure and material properties at the tested interface. The aim of this study was to evaluate the use of 0.1% cetylpyridinium chloride (CPC) as a new storage solution and to assess the possible effect of 0.1% thymol on microleakage and bond strength. Forty extracted human teeth were collected from 10 different dental clinics. Immediately after extraction, the teeth were randomly divided and immersed in four different storage solutions. Two test solutions of 0.1% CPC (group C) and 0.1% thymol (group T) were compared with phosphate-buffered saline (Group S - positive control) and to 3% H₂O₂ (group H - negative control). Bond strength test and dye penetration evaluation were then carried out. The findings suggest that the use of 0.1% CPC as storage solution does not affect bond strength to enamel. However, it may increase dye penetration at the cervical margin. The effect of 0.1% thymol on shear bond strength and dye penetration is similar to the effect of phosphate-buffered saline.