Assessment of Bacterial Load Using 3.8% SDF as an Irrigant in Pulpectomized Primary Molars: A Randomized Controlled Trial

AIM AND OBJECTIVE: The aim of the present study was to evaluate the reduction in bacterial loading using 3.8% as an irrigating solution in pulpectomized primary molars. STUDY DESIGN: A randomized, controlled clinical trial was performed that included primary molars with pulp necrosis. Sixty necrotic canals were included, 30 irrigated with 3.8% SDF (experimental group) and 30 with 1% NaOCl solution (control group); in all cases, two microbiological samples from within the canals were taken with sterile paper points, the first after the canal opening and before the first irrigation, and the second after instrumentation and final irrigation, before obturation. All samples were evaluated by Agar plate method. RESULTS: The results were statistically analyzed by student “t“ test. After analyzing samples before and after irrigation in the control group (NaOCl), we found a strong significant decrease of bacterial load (p = < 0.001). The same occurred in the 3.8% SDF group samples (p = < 0.001). When both groups were compared post irrigation, a statistically significant difference was observed in favor of 3.8 % SDF. CONCLUSION: 3.8% SDF can be suggested as an alternative irrigant for pulpectomy of necrotic teeth. HOW TO CITE THIS ARTICLE: Maru V, Padawe D, Naik S, et al. Assessment of Bacterial Load Using 3.8% SDF as an Irrigant in Pulpectomized Primary Molars: A Randomized Controlled Trial. Int J Clin Pediatr Dent 2022;15(S-1):S47-S51.