Laser Activation of Aquatine Endodontic Cleanser: A Novel Approach to Root Canal Disinfection

Abstract

Aim: To evaluate and compare the antimicrobial efficacy of 2.5% sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl) and Aquatine Endodontic Cleanser (EC) with and without laser-activated disinfection against Enterococcus faecalis in the root canals of primary teeth. Materials and methods: A total of 45 human primary teeth were selected and inoculated with E. faecalis and divided into three groups as per intervention. In group I, irrigation was done using 2.5% NaOCl, in group II using Aquatine EC solution, and in group III with Aquatine EC activated by 810 nm diode laser. Results: Intragroup comparisons showed a decrease in colony-forming units in all three groups. Intergroup comparisons showed a statistically significant difference between group I and group II (p = 0.024) and between group I and group III (p = 0.03). Conclusion: Aquatine EC showed maximum antimicrobial efficacy under laser activation. Clinical significance: Aquatine EC can be considered a suitable alternative to NaOCl in light of its known toxic effects.