Comparative evaluation of pulp tissue dissolution ability of sodium hypochlorite by various activation techniques: An in vitro study

BACKGROUND: The success in endodontic therapy is dependent largely on the absolute elimination of pulp tissue remnants and the maximum reduction of pathologic microbial load present within the root canal system. AIM: The aim of this in vitro study was to compare and evaluate the ability of pulp tissue dissolution with and without activation of 5.25% sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl). MATERIALS AND METHODS: Pulp tissue samples collected from intact, noncarious extracted third molars were standardized to 8 mg in each group. These samples were placed in conical Eppendorf tubes of 15 ml with 10 ml 5.25% NaOCl for 4 min and were activated suitably according to the group specifications. All the procedures in this study were carried out at room temperature. The preweighed pulp tissue samples were further weighed again after the dissolution phase, and residual weight loss in each group along with its percentage was obtained. The results were then statistically analyzed using one-way analysis of variance and Tukey post hoc test. RESULTS: The maximum amount of pulp tissue dissolution was found in the laser-assisted irrigation group, i.e., NaOCl with Er, Cr: YSGG (P < 0.05) and showed a statistically significant result in comparison with other groups. CONCLUSION: Within the limitations of the study, laser-assisted irrigation with a radial firing tip (NaOCl activated by Er, Cr: YSGG) was the most effective in dissolving the pulp tissue in comparison with other groups. The ultrasonic activation also showed a considerable amount of pulp tissue dissolution comparable to laser-activated irrigation in this study.