Ex vivo efficacy of irrigation substances against Enterococcus faecalis in primary root canals

Abstract

In the practice of pediatric dentistry, endodontic treatment is a permanent challenge for the professional, considering that the key to a successful procedure is an adequate irrigation protocol; therefore, the objective of this research is to verify the ex vivo clinical efficacy of NaOCl, chlorhexidine and saline solution against Enterococcus faecalis. An ex vivo study was carried out with a quantitative approach, experimental design, descriptive research level in a laboratory setting and current time frame. Twelve deciduous dental organs were analyzed without specific distinction with previous indication of indicated extraction of pediatric patients who attended the Pediatric Dentistry consultation at the Dentistry Department of the Catholic University of Cuenca during the period 2019 - 2020. It was evaluated by means of direct observation technique. As a result, NaOCl 5,25% and Chlorhexidine 2% showed high inhibition indexes against Enterococcus faecalis. Thus suggesting NaOCl or chlorhexidine gluconate as an alternative in pulp therapy according to the individual conditions of the patient and the clinician also supported by the American Association of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD).