Comparison of Microbial Microleakage in Three Temporary Restorative Materials (Cavit, Coltosol, and Zonalin) in Primary Teeth

Abstract

Background and Objective: Temporary restorations between sessions are essential to prevent the entry of microorganisms and inflammation of peri-radicular tissue. The aim of this study was to compare the microbial microleakage of three temporary restorative materials (Cavit, Coltosol, and Zonalin) in primary canine teeth under in vitro conditions. Methods: In this in vitro study, 72 primary canines extracted for orthodontic treatment were selected. After preparation and restoration of cavity with different materials (Cavit, Coltosol, and Zonalin), the teeth were subjected to thermal cycles, immersion in methylene blue dye, and subsequent longitudinal sectioning for microbial microleakage assessment. The degree of microbial microleakage was categorized into five levels, increasing with the intensity of dye penetration. Findings: At the incisal edge, Coltosol predominantly showed grade 1 microbial microleakage (68), while Cavit showed grade 2 microbial microleakage (40) and Zonalin showed grade 4 microbial microleakage (76). At the cervical edge, Coltosol showed grade 3 microbial microleakage (40), Cavit showed grade 3 microbial microleakage (56), and Zonalin showed grade 4 microbial microleakage (100). Statistical analyses showed significant differences in microbial microleakage between Cavit, Coltosol, and Zonalin at both the incisal and cervical edges (p<0.001). Conclusion: According to the results of the present study, all materials showed cervical and incisal microbial microleakage. However, Cavit showed a greater ability to seal the cervix, while Zonalin showed the highest microbial microleakage in both the cervical and incisal areas. © 2026, Babol University of Medical Sciences. All rights reserved.