Evaluation and comparison of biological cleaning efficacy of two endofiles & irrigants by microbial quantification- In vivo study

Abstract

The endodontic triad comprises of cleaning & shaping, disinfection and obturation. Success of root canal therapy is majorly achieved by proper cleaning and shaping. However elimination of bacterial contaminants as well as necrotic debris of the canals requires the adjunctive use of irrigants. To achieve a satisfactory biological and mechanical cleaning proper selection of endodontic instruments and irrigants is necessary. In this study we are comparing and evaluating cleaning efficacy of endofiles (K-Flex files and Hand protapers) & root canal irrigants (3% Sodium Hypochlorite and Chlorhexidine2%) by microbial quantification. Root canal samples were collected in autoclavable bottles containing transport media (nutrient broth) and samples were cultured in tryptose soya agar at incubation temp of 37 0 c for 24-48 hrs and colonies were counted with digital colony counter. The purpose of this study is to aid the clinician to select the proper instrument and irrigant which minimics the failure rate of root canal treatment for the benefit of patient.