Efficiency of a semiconductor diode laser in disinfection of the root canal system in endodontics: An in vitro study

Abstract

Context: The success of endodontic treatment depends on the eradication of microbes from the rootcanal system and prevention of reinfection. The root canal is shaped with hand and rotary instruments under constant irrigation to remove the inflamed and necrotic tissue, microbes/biofilms, and other debris from the root canal space. The main goal of instrumentation is to facilitate effective irrigation, disinfection, and filling. Throughout the history of endodontics, endeavors have continuously been made to develop more effective irrigant delivery and agitation systems for root canal irrigation. Aim: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of three different newer irrigation delivery techniques; namely Endovac, Stropko Irrigator, and laser disinfection with 5.25% sodium hypochlorite. Materials and Methods: Forty teeth after disinfection by Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) regulations were instrumented and inoculated with bacterial strains of Enterococcusfaecalis. The teeth were divided into four groups, in the experimental group, the irrigants were delivered with the Endovac, Stropko Irrigator, and laser irradiation and the control group which received no irrigation. The samples were incubated in Muller-Hilton media plates and incubated for 24 h. Statistical analysis used: The colony forming units were determined and statistically analyzed using the chi-square test. Results: According to the results obtained, laser irradiation resulted in complete disinfection of the root canal system. The Endovac system resulted in significant disinfection as compared to the Stropko Irrigator system. Conclusion: Laser irradiation resulted in significantly higher antimicrobial effects compared with the Endovac and Stropko irrigation groups when in conjunction with sodium hypochlorite

Keywords

• Disinfection
• endovac
• irrigation
• lasers
• stropko irrigator