Dentinal defects after root canal preparation with rotary nickel-titanium files using different irrigants: An in vitro study

AIM: This in vitro study aims to detect the dentinal defects associated with different irrigants during biomechanical preparation using rotary nickel-titanium (Ni-Ti) files (Hyflex CM). MATERIALS AND METHODS: For the study, 120 extracted mandibular incisors were taken. Depending on the irrigant used, teeth were divided into six groups (n = 20). In Group 1, teeth were not biomechanically prepared considered as, control group. In Group 2, Group 3, Group 4, Group 5, and Group 6, biomechanical preparation was with Hyflex CM rotary Ni-Ti files using saline, 3% sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl), 17% ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA), SmearClear, and 2% chlorhexidine (CHX), respectively, as irrigant. IsoMet Saw was used to section samples at 3, 6, and 9 mm from the apex perpendicular to the long axis of tooth. Segments were seen at 30x magnification under a digital stereomicroscope. STATISTICAL ANALYSIS: Statistical analysis was done using two-tailed t-test. RESULTS: Maximum number of dentinal defects was seen with 17% EDTA, followed by 3% NaOCl, SmearClear, and 2% CHX. CONCLUSIONS: Irrigation with 17% EDTA causes more dentinal defects as compared to irrigation with 3% NaOCl, SmearClear, and 2% CHX.