Comparative Evaluation of Novel Automated Irrigation Devices with Side-Vented Needle Irrigation on Bacterial CFU Counts in Nonvital Teeth

Abstract

Background: Syringe needle irrigation is used frequently to deliver root canal disinfectants. However, conventional syringe needle irrigation has its potential drawbacks. The current study, hence, aimed at assessing the real-time benefit of using conventional needle irrigation as compared to a novel automated irrigation device in patients undergoing root canal treatment. Methods: It is a prospective study where 45 patients with single-rooted teeth were allocated into three groups according to the respective test disinfection technique used for disinfection: group I: novel automated irrigation device, group II: open-ended flat needle irrigation, and group III: side-vented needle irrigation. Pre- and postoperative culture samples were obtained and transferred immediately for microbial analysis. Results: A difference was noted among the groups (P < 0.05) in the antimicrobial efficacy of aerobic and anaerobic bacteria. Conclusion: The novel automated irrigation device was better than syringe needle irrigation in microbial reduction.

Keywords

• anterior teeth
• root canal
• root canal irrigants
• sodium hypochlorite