Smear layer removal ability and antibacterial activity of endodontic irrigants

Abstract

INTRODUCTION : a variety of endodontic irrigants are available for endodontic irrigation. Irrigants must be effective in removing the smear layer created during endodontic therapy as well as eliminating bacteria. AIM : This in vitro study tested various alternating sequences of sodium hypochlorite, anolyte solution (electrochemically activated water), and EDTA for their ability to do this. METHOD : Forty-eight single canal teeth were randomly divided into six groups, prepared to working length, sterilised and inoculated with Enterococcus faecalis. Each group was assigned a different sequence of irrigants. Standard cultivation techniques were used to count the colonyforming units at each phase. Two SEM photomicrographs of each root’s coronal, middle and apical thirds were taken randomly and the number of patent dentinal tubules counted. Statistical analysis was completed using Oneway- ANOVA and multiple comparisons. RESULTS : Group 6 (n=10) protocol of 5ml anolyte followed by 3ml 18% EDTA showed the best smear layer removal results for all thirds of the canal. Chemical irrigation significantly decreased the intracanal E. faecalis CFUs. CONCLUSION : Within the limitations of the study anolyte solution followed by EDTA showed the best smear layer removal. The various sequences of NaOCl, anolyte solution, and EDTA all had similar antibacterial results.