Comparative evaluation of novel chelating agents for retrievability of intracanal calcium hydroxide using different irrigation protocols: An in vitro study

Abstract

Aim: The aim of the study is to evaluate and compare the efficacy of glycolic acid (GA), phytic acid, chitosan nanoparticles, and ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) for the removal of intracanal calcium hydroxide (Ca [OH] 2) dressing using needle irrigation and passive ultrasonic irrigation (PUI). Materials and Methods: Seventy-two mandibular premolars were decoronated and roots were prepared to apical size 30. Ca(OH) 2 paste was filled in the canals and samples were stored for 1 week after which they were irrigated using different irrigants and irrigation techniques. The residual Ca(OH) 2 was analyzed on split surface of samples under stereomicroscope and scanning electron microscope. Scoring was done for each sample and results were tabulated. The data were subjected to analysis using Mann-Whitney U-test with the level of significance set to 5%. Results: Removal of Ca(OH) 2 was maximum in chitosan group aided by PUI and was minimum when GA or EDTA was used for needle irrigation, as observed under stereomicroscope. Removal of Ca(OH) 2 from the coronal third was maximum followed by middle and then apical third. Phytic acid and chitosan were proven to be of maximum efficacy for removal of intracanal Ca(OH) 2 removal in the middle third among all the groups, especially when used with PUI. Needle irrigation using EDTA and GA was least efficacious. Conclusion: Chitosan and phytic acid can be used for better removal of Ca(OH) 2 dressing, especially in the coronal and middle thirds of the root canal. The efficacy of intracanal dressing retrieval can be enhanced by passive ultrasonic activation.