chlorhexidine + calcium hydroxide

This intervention is a combination intracanal medication used in endodontic therapy, specifically studied by Cairo University for the treatment of necrotic teeth with chronic apical periodontitis. It consists of a mixture of calcium hydroxide paste (such as CALCIPAST) and 2% chlorhexidine gel (such as Gluco-Chex 2%). Calcium hydroxide exerts its antimicrobial effect through the release of hydroxyl ions, which create a highly alkaline environment (pH approx. 12.5) that denatures bacterial proteins, damages cytoplasmic membranes, and causes DNA damage. Chlorhexidine is a bisbiguanide antiseptic that provides broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity by adsorbing onto the cell walls of microorganisms, causing leakage of intracellular components. The combination is intended to enhance the reduction of bacterial endotoxins (lipopolysaccharides) and facultative anaerobes like Enterococcus faecalis, which are often resistant to calcium hydroxide alone, while also aiming to reduce postoperative pain.

Brand names

CALCIPASTGluco-Chex 2%

Other names

Calcium hydroxide and 2% chlorhexidine gel combinationCHX + Ca(OH)2Chlorhexidine 2% gel - Calcium Hydroxide Paste - Non-Setting