Incidence of dentinal defects during root canal preparation with hand files using different irrigants: An in vitro study

INTRODUCTION: The purpose of this in vitro study was to compare the incidence of dentinal defects during root canal preparation with hand files using different irrigants. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 120 extracted mandibular incisors were randomly divided into onecontrol group and five experimental groups (n = 20) depending on the irrigant used. Biomechanical preparation was not done in control group. Teeth in experimental groups were prepared with hand K-files to a master apical file #35 with 1-mm increments step-back up to #50. In Group 2, saline was used as an irrigant. In Groups 3, 4, 5, and 6, 3% sodium hypochlorite (NaOCL), SmearClear, 17% ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA), and 2% chlorhexidine (CHX), respectively, were used as an irrigant. Specimens were sectioned perpendicular to the long axis at 3, 6, and 9 mm from the apex. Sections were observed under a digital stereomicroscope at 30× magnification. Two-tailed t-test was used for statistical analysis. RESULTS: There was a statistically significant difference between the six groups. Group 5 (17% EDTA) had the highest number of dentinal defects, followed by Group 3 (3% NaOCl), Group 4 (SmearClear), and Group 6 (2% CHX). CONCLUSIONS: 17% EDTA causes more dentinal defects as compared to 3% NaOCl, SmearClear, 2% CHX, and saline.