The Capability of Cocoa Pulp Juice (Theobroma cacao L.) on Crown Dentin Smear Layer Removal

Abstract

Introduction: smear layer is a thin layer formed from tooth structure instrumentation which can prevent the restoration material bonds the tooth structure. Partial smear layer should be removed using dentin conditioner. One of dentin conditioners that is often used is 10% polyacrylic acid. The natural ingredient that is thought to be an alternative to dentin conditioner is cocoa pulp juice because it contains many acidic compounds. Methods: This research is a laboratory experimental study to determine the ability of 100% cocoa pulp juice (Theobroma cacao L.) to remove the crown dentin smear layer and compare it to 10% polyacrylic acid. Eight dental elements were prepared for class I cavities on the middle 1/3 of buccal surface to reach 3 mm in diameter and 2 mm in depth, enamel was prepared until 1 mm in depth of cavity left. The samples were irrigated with sterile aquades and dried. Furthermore, 4 samples were applied 10% polyacrylic acid and 4 samples used cocoa pulp juice, left for 20 seconds, irrigated, dried, and put in the oven for 2x24 hours. The samples were examined for their cavity cleanliness score using Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) photo with 2000x of magnification. Result: both groups have the same score and statistical test shows that there is no significant difference between them. Conclusion: the 100% cocoa pulp juice was able to clean the smear layer of crown dentin and its ability equal to 10% polyacrylic acid.