Influence of photodynamic therapy, different final irrigants, and ultrasonic activation on the bond strength of glass fiber posts to root dentin.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the influence of photodynamic therapy (PDT), different final irrigants, and ultrasonic activation (US) on the bond strength of glass fiber posts (GFP) to root dentin. METHODS: One hundred twenty bovine roots were divided into 12 groups according to PDT application, the type of final endodontic irrigant, and US. The samples were divided into 12 groups (n = 10): G1-DW(distilled water); G2-DW+US; G3-17% EDTA; G4-17% EDTA+US; G5-17% GA (glycolic acid); G6-17% GA+US; G7-PDT+DW; G8-PDT+DW+US; G9-PDT+17% EDTA; G10-PDT+17% EDTA+US; G11-PDT+17% GA; G12-PDT+17% GA+US. After cementing the glass fiber posts with resin cement, roots were sectioned into 2-mm-thick slices. One slice from the cervical third and another from the middle third were used for the push out test (PO), and the other two for the diametral compression test (DC). Thus, 10 samples were obtained per third for each mechanical test (n = 10). Kruskal-Wallis and Student-Newman-Keuls tests were used to analyze PO and DC data, and Pearson's correlation test was used to verify the relationship between the variables. Failure patterns were analyzed with chi-square test. RESULTS: Significant differences were found in the PO test among the experimental groups (p < 0.001; power=1.00). PDT improved bond strength when using EDTA. PDT and US increased bond strength when using GA. Favorable failure patterns occurred more frequently in Group GA+US. There was no correlation between data obtained with PO and DC tests (r = 0.112; p = 0.729). CONCLUSION: PDT provided the highest bond strength values of GFP to root dentin when associated with GA and US or when associated only with EDTA.

Effect of glycolic acid and EDTA on dentin mechanical properties.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of glycolic acid (GA) and EDTA on dentin mechanical properties. For the cohesive strength, flexural strength and fracture strength tests, the hourglass of root dentin, dentin sticks and roots standardised to 1 mm thickness were used respectively. ANOVA and Tukey tests were used for statistical analysis (P < 0.05). The results showed that EDTA and GA 17% reduced the cohesive strength values when compared to distilled water (control; P = 0.0022 and P = 0.0016 respectively), whereas the values for GA 10% group were similar to those of the control group (P = 0.093). No statistically significant difference was found among the groups for the flexural strength test (P = 0.1974). Fracture strength test showed that EDTA and GA 17% were statistically similar to each other (P = 0.7694) and statistically inferior to GA 10% (P = 0.0007 and P = 0.0004 respectively). It was concluded that 10% GA showed fewer negative effects on dentin mechanical properties.

Influence of the apical limit of instrumentation and photodynamic therapy on the postoperative pain of lower molars with asymptomatic apical periodontitis.

INTRODUCTION: The aim of present study was to evaluate the influence of apical limit of instrumentation and PDT on the postoperative pain of lower molars with asymptomatic apical periodontitis. METHODS: Forty patients were included in the present study and were divided into 4 groups (n=10), according to apical limit of instrumentation and use of PDT: instrumentation at 0.0 measurement; instrumentation at 0.0 measurement+PDT; instrumentation 1mm beyond 0.0 measurement; instrumentation 1mm beyond 0.0 measurement+PDT. In the PDT, the root canals were filled with 0.01% methylene blue, remaining for 5 min. The low-intensity laser was used with 100 mW, 660-690 nm wavelength), using intra-canal fibre. Root canals were irradiated for 90 s, delivering total dose of 9 J and energy density of 320 J/cm2. After root canal preparation and PDT protocols, root canals were filled with gutta-percha and AH Plus endodontic sealer, being sealed with composite resin.The evaluation of postoperative pain was performed by visual analog scale after 24, 48, 72 hours and 7 days. Data were analysed by specific statistical tests, at level of 5%. RESULTS: No statistical significant difference was observed among experimental groups in all evaluation periods, as well as in the intragroup analysis over time, regarding postoperative pain and analgesic medication consumption (p>0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Apical limit of instrumentation and PDT have no influence on the postoperative pain of lower molars with asymptomatic apical periodontitis.

Influence of ultrasonic activation on antimicrobial activity of a new final irrigant containing glycolic acid: An in vitro study.

This study evaluated the influence of ultrasonic activation (US) on the antimicrobial activity of a new final irrigant containing glycolic acid (GA). Extracted teeth were used, being 70 to counting of colony-forming units (CFUs) and 35 to confocal laser scanning microscopy. Samples were inoculated with Enterococcus faecalis and divided into 7 groups: distilled water + US; 17% EDTA; Qmix; 17% GA; 17% EDTA + US; QMix + US; and 17% GA + US and kept in contact with test solution for 1 min in the groups with or no US. In the CFUs, the highest bacterial reduction was observed in QMix + US group, followed by QMix and GA + US. In the confocal evaluation, the lowest number of viable cells was observed in EDTA + US, with no statistical difference from QMix, QMix + US and GA + US (P > 0.05). The use of US improves the antimicrobial activity of EDTA and GA, being statistically different from the isolated use of these final irrigants in both evaluation tests.

Cytotoxicity of different concentrations of glycolic acid and its effects on root dentin microhardness - An in vitro study.

The aim of the study was to evaluate the cytotoxicity of different glycolic acid concentrations (GA) and its effects on dentinal microhardness. Cytotoxicity was evaluated after inoculation of test irrigants in the lymphocyte primary culture for 3 min. The tested substances were distilled water(DW); 17% EDTA; QMix; 10% GA; 17% GA; and 25% GA. Counting of total, live and dead cells was performed, obtaining the average percentage of dead cells of each group. For microhardness evaluation, 60 root dentin samples were divided into the same tested groups (n = 10) and immersed in test irrigants for 3 min. Dentin microhardness was evaluated by Vicker test. Specific statistical analysis was made in both tests. Results showed significant lower cytotoxicity for QMix and 10% GA (P < 0.05). Moreover, all test irrigants presented similar values of microhardness than the control group (P > 0.05). In conclusion, lower GA concentration can be an alternative for final irrigation on endodontics.

Effect of reciprocating instrumentation on chlorhexidine substantivity on human dentin: chemical analysis followed by confocal laser microscopy

The present research analyzed the reciprocating instrumentation associated to chlorhexidine (CHX) substantivity as its correlation with E. faecalis viability in ex vivo root canals. Eighty extracted single-rooted human teeth were used, being 40 to high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and 40 to confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM). In both, teeth were decoronated and the cervical third was prepared. In the CLSM analysis, the root canals were inoculated with E. faecalis for 14 days. Samples were divided into 4 groups (n=10) according to instrumentation technique: no instrumentation and irrigation with distilled water (control); manual instrumentation (K-File); rotary instrumentation (ProTaper Next); and reciprocating instrumentation (Reciproc R25). Two percent chlorhexidine was applied as irrigating substance in experimental groups. Longitudinal grooves resulted in 2 halves root and 20 proof bodies in each group. Samples were divided by chance in two groups (n=10) and the outcomes were evaluated after two days and one week. The retained chlorhexidine and live cells after instrumentation techniques in each evaluation time was measured by HPLC and CLSM, respectively. Specific analysis was applied for experimental tests (p≤0.05). Both rotary as well as reciprocating techniques significantly reduced the amount of chlorhexidine on dentin in all observation periods (p<0.05). After evaluation times, all experimental groups presented lower live cells compared to control, but without statistically difference. Intragroup comparisons in times of evaluation showed no differences in instrumentation techniques, in chlorhexidine retention and number of live cells (p>0.05). Reciprocating instrumentation does not interfere on chlorhexidine substantivity.

Influence of a glycolic acid-based final irrigant for photosensitizer removal of photodynamic therapy on the microhardness and colour change of the dentin structure.

INTRODUCTION: This study aimed to evaluate the influence of glycolic acid-based final irrigant for photosensitizer removal of photodynamic therapy on the microhardness and colour change of the dentin structure. METHODS: Eighty extracted single-rooted human incisors were used. Sample preparation and root split resulted in 160 samples, 80 samples being used for microhardness and 80 samples for colour change evaluation. In the first, PDT protocol was performed and 80 samples were randomly divided into 4 groups (n = 20), according to the final irrigation protocol: distilled water (DW); 17 % ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA); QMix; 17 % glycolic acid (GA). Microhardness was evaluated using the Vicker tester, before and after, PDT and final irrigation protocols, calculating the percentage of microhardness reduction. In the second evaluation, PDT and final irrigation protocols were performed in the same way. Colour change was evaluated using digital spectrophotometer before and after these protocols, calculating the ΔE colour change using the CIELAB system (L*a*b* values). Specific statistical analysis was performed for both evaluations (α = 5%). RESULTS: The highest percentage of microhardness reduction was observed in 17 % EDTA, QMix and 17 % GA groups, with no significant difference among them (p > 0.05). Furthermore, none of these protocols was effective in photosensitizer removal, and all final irrigation protocols were statically similar to control group (p > 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: GA promotes microhardness reduction and also contributes to the colourization of dentin structure during the photosensitizer removal process, followingPDT .

Effectiveness of grape seed extract-based intracanal dressings against Enterococcus Faecalis and its influence on dentin microhardness and bond strength of filling material / Eficácia de medicamentos intracanais à base de extrato de semente de uva contra o Enterococcus Faecalis e sua influência na micro-dureza da dentina e na resistência de união do material obturador

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of grape seed extract (GSE)-based intracanal dressings against Enterococcus faecalis (E. faecalis) and its influence on dentin microhardness and bond strength of the filling material. The root canals of 126 human teeth were distributed into three test groups: antimicrobial activity (60 teeth), dentin microhardness (30 teeth) and bond strength (36 teeth). In all three groups, specimens were subdivided into six groups, according to intracanal dressing protocols: G1 ­ distilled water (DW); G2 ­ 2% chlorhexidine gel (CHX); G3 ­ calcium hydroxide (Ca[OH]2)+DW; G4 ­ GSE+DW; G5 ­ Ca(OH)2+CHX; G6 ­ GSE+CHX. The counting of colony-forming units (CFUs), the Vickers microhardness tester and the push-out test were performed to evaluate the antimicrobial activity, dentin microhardness and bond strength, respectively. Specific statistical analysis was performed for each evaluation (α=5%). The greatest bacterial reduction was observed in G5 (Ca[OH]2+CHX) and G6 (GSE+CHX) (p<0.05). There was no statistically significant difference among groups in the dentin microhardness evaluation (p<0.05). The highest bond strength in the immediate evaluation was observed in G4 (GSE+DW) and G6 (GSE+CHX), whereas the highest bond strength after 12 months of storage was observed in G2 (CHX), G3 (Ca[OH]2+DW), G4 (GSE+DW), and G6 (GSE+CHX) (p<0.05). After the storage period, bond strength was increased in G2 (CHX) and G3 (Ca[OH]2+DW), and remained unchanged in G4 (GSE+DW) and G6 (GSE+CHX) (p<0.05). GSE-based intracanal dressings have antimicrobial potential against E. faecalis, have no influence in dentin microhardness and preserve the high bond strength of filling materials for root dentin over time.

O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar a eficácia de medicamentos intracanal à base de extrato de semente de uva (GSE) contra Enterococcus faecalis (E. faecalis) e sua influência na microdureza da dentina e na resistência de união do material de obturação. Os canais radiculares de 126 dentes humanos foram distribuídos em três grupos de teste: atividade antimicrobiana (60 dentes), microdureza da dentina (30 dentes) e resistência adesiva (36 dentes). Nos três grupos, as amostras foram subdivididas em seis grupos, de acordo com os protocolos de curativos intracanal: G1 ­ água destilada (DW); G2 ­ gel de clorexidina a 2% (CHX); G3 ­ hidróxido de cálcio (Ca[OH]2) +DW; G4 ­ GSE+DW; G5 ­ Ca(OH)2+CHX; G6 ­ GSE+CHX. A contagem de unidades formadoras de colônias (UFCs), o testador de microdureza Vickers e o teste push-out foram realizados para avaliar a atividade antimicrobiana, a microdureza da dentina e a resistência adesiva, respectivamente. Análise estatística específica foi realizada para cada avaliação (α=5%). A maior redução bacteriana foi observada no G5 (Ca[OH]2+CHX) e G6 (GSE+CHX) (p<0,05). Não houve diferença estatisticamente significativa entre os grupos na avaliação da microdureza da dentina (p<0,05). A maior resistência adesiva na avaliação imediata foi observada no G4 (GSE+DW) e G6 (GSE+CHX), enquanto a maior resistência adesiva após 12 meses de armazenamento foi observada no G2 (CHX), G3 (Ca[OH]2+DW), G4 (GSE+DW) e G6 (GSE+CHX) (p<0,05). Após o período de armazenamento, a resistência de união aumentou no G2 (CHX) e G3 (Ca[OH]2+DW), permanecendo inalterada no G4 (GSE+DW) e G6 (GSE+CHX) (p<0,05). Os medicamentos intracanal à base de GSE têm potencial antimicrobiano contra E. faecalis, não influenciam na microdureza da dentina e preservam a alta resistência adesiva dos materiais de obturação da dentina radicular ao longo do tempo.

Influence of glass fiber posts and class III direct restorations on the resistance of anterior teeth / Influência dos pinos de fibra de vidro e restaurações diretas classe III na resistência dos dentes anteriores

This study objectives to evaluate the fracture strength of upper central incisors (UCI) restored with composite resin (CR) in Class III cavities and endodontically treated teeth with or without glass fiber post (GFP), analyzing their failure mode. Sixty human UCI were randomly divided into four experimental groups: endodontically treated teeth without GFP (G1), endodontically treated teeth with GFP (G2), teeth with mesial/distal Class III cavities restored with CR without GFP (G3), and teeth with mesial/distal Class III cavities restored with CR with GFP (G4). The samples were submitted to the fracture strength test in a universal testing machine with a compression shear load applied at speed of 1.0 mm/min until fracture occurred. The data were submitted to one-way ANOVA (α=0.05) and the samples were analyzed for failure mode. The analysis did not show a significant statistical difference in fracture strength between the groups (p>0.05). The results showed that only endodontically treated teeth (G1) (753.4N) presented behavior similar to teeth with GFP (G2) (702.1N). The same occurred when comparing teeth with Class III cavities without GFP (G3) (670.2 N) and with GFP (G4) (746.1N). It can be concluded that glass fiber posts do not change the fracture strength of incisors with endodontic treatment and Class III cavities.

Este estudo objetiva avaliar a resistência à fratura de incisivos centrais superiores (ICS) restaurados com resina composta (RC) em cavidades Classe III e dentes tratados endodonticamente com ou sem pino de fibra de vidro (PFV), analisando seu padrão de fratura. Sessenta ICS humanos foram divididos aleatoriamente em quatro grupos experimentais: dentes tratados endodonticamente sem PFV (G1), dentes tratados endodonticamente com PFV (G2), dentes com cavidades mesiais/distais Classe III restauradas com RC sem PFV (G3), e dentes com cavidades mesiais/distais Classe III restauradas com RC com PFV (G4). As amostras foram submetidas ao teste de resistência à fratura em uma máquina universal de ensaios com uma carga de cisalhamento de compressão aplicada na velocidade de 1,0 mm / min até a ocorrência da fratura. Os dados foram submetidos à ANOVA unidirecional (α=0,05) e as amostras foram analisadas quanto ao modo de falha. A análise não mostrou diferença estatisticamente significativa na resistência à fratura entre os grupos (p>0,05). Os resultados mostraram que os dentes apenas tratados endodonticamente (G1) (753,4N) apresentaram comportamento semelhante aos dentes com PFV (G2) (702,1N). O mesmo ocorreu ao comparar dentes com cavidades Classe III sem PFV (G3) (670.2 N) e com PFV (G4) (746.1N). Pode-se concluir que pinos de fibra de vidro não alteram a resistência à fratura de incisivos com tratamento endodôntico e cavidades Classe III.

Removal of water binding proteins from dentin increases the adhesion strength of low-hydrophilicity dental resins.

OBJECTIVES: To investigate the role of proteoglycans (PGs) on the physical properties of the dentin matrix and the bond strength of methacrylate resins with varying hydrophilicities. METHODS: Dentin were obtained from crowns of human molars. Enzymatic removal of PGs followed a standard protocol using 1 mg/mL trypsin (Try) for 24 h. Controls were incubated in ammonium bicarbonate buffer. Removal of PGs was assessed by visualization of glycosaminoglycan chains (GAGs) in dentin under transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The dentin matrix swelling ratio was estimated using fully demineralized dentin. Dentin wettability was assessed on wet, dry and re-wetted dentin surfaces through water contact angle measurements. Microtensile bond strength test (TBS) was performed with experimental adhesives containing 6% HEMA (H6) and 18% HEMA (H18) and a commercial dental adhesive. Data were statistically analyzed using ANOVA and post-hoc tests (α = 0.05). RESULTS: The enzymatic removal of PGs was confirmed by the absence and fragmentation of GAGs. There was statistically significant difference between the swelling ratio of Try-treated and control dentin (p < 0.001). Significantly lower contact angle was found for Try-treated on wet and dry dentin (p < 0.002). The contact angle on re-wet dentin was not recovered in Try-treated group (p = 0.9). Removal of PGs significantly improved the TBS of H6 (109% higher, p < 0.001) and H18 (29% higher, p = 0.002) when compared to control. The TBS of commercial adhesive was not affected by trypsin treatment (p = 0.9). SIGNIFICANCE: Changing the surface energy of dentin by PGs removal improved resin adhesion, likely due to more efficient water displacement, aiding to improved resin infiltration and polymerization.

Effect of a new irrigant solution containing glycolic acid on smear layer removal and chemical/mechanical properties of dentin.

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of glycolic acid (GA) (with pH 1.2 and 5) and ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) on the chemical and mechanical properties of dentin to investigate the potential use of GA as final irrigant in the root canal therapy. Specifically, changes in microhardness, smear layer removal, erosion, mineral content distribution, apatite/collagen ratio and flexural strength of mineralized dentin treated with GA were assessed. Saline solution was used as a negative control. Knoop microhardness (KHN) was measured on the root canal lumen of root segments. Dentin beams were used for 3-point flexural strength (σ) test. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images of root sections were obtained for evaluation of smear layer removal and dentin erosion on root segments and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS) was used for mineral content distribution. The apatite/collagen ratio (A/C) in dentin powder were examined by Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. KHN, σ and A/C results were statistically analyzed with ANOVA and Tukey tests (α = 0.05). Smear layer and dentin erosion scores were analyzed with Kruskal-Wallis and Dunn tests (α = 0.05). Root dentin treated with EDTA and GA presented similar KHN regardless of the pH (p > 0.05). However, KHN was significantly reduced in EDTA and GA groups when compared to control group (p<0.001). GA showed the same ability to remove the smear layer and to cause dentin erosion as EDTA. EDS results showed that the GA and EDTA solutions did not alter the dentin mineral content distribution. The apatite/collagen ratio reduced with all irrigant solution and was the lowest with GA pH 5 (p<0.001), while σ was not significantly affected by the experimental solutions (p = 0.559). It can be concluded that GA has similar ability to remove the smear layer than EDTA. GA does not affect negatively the chemical/mechanical properties and it does not increase dentin erosion. The use of GA with low pH seems to promote less change in collagen/apatite ratio, but further studies are needed to establish an ideal clinical protocol. Therefore, this study supports the potential use of GA as an alternative final irrigation solution for root canal preparation.

Antibacterial Efficacy of the Grape Seed Extract as an Irrigant for Root Canal Preparation.

Objective: The purpose of this research was to compare relative effectiveness of sodium hypochlorite 5.25% (NaOCl), 2% chlorhexidine gel (CHX) and 6.5 % grape seed extract (GSE) against Enterococcus faecalis using instrument Reciproc R25 in root canal preparation. Methods: Forty-five mesiobuccal root canals from extracted human maxillary molars were collected and infected with Enterococcus faecalis. The samples were divided into five groups according to the different types of irrigants: saline (positive control) (n=5); in the other groups were used 10 root canals for each group: NaOCl+EDTA; CHX gel+EDTA; GSE solution+EDTA; GSE gel+EDTA. All the groups were prepared with reciprocating instruments Reciproc R25. Bacterial reduction was measured by two-way ANOVA (P<0.001) followed by Tukey HSD post-hoc tests, from the counting of colony forming units (CFUs) from samples collected before instrumentation and after. The significance level established at 5% (P<0.05). Results: The group prepared with the NaOCl resulted in highest antimicrobial capacity among of all (P>0.05), followed by CHX and GSE gel (P<0.05). Control and GSE solution showed similar results (P<0.05) and resulted in the lowest percentage of the reduction of the microorganism into the root canals. Conclusion: NaOCl had the higher elimination capacity of Enterococcus faecalis than GSE and CHX.

Antimicrobial activity of intracanal dressings composed by natural products associated to chlorhexidine and its influence on dentinal colour change / Avaliação da ação antimicrobiana de medicações intracanais à base de produtos fitoterápicos associados à clorexidina e sua influência na alteração de cor da estrutura dentinária

Purpose: evaluate the antimicrobial activity of intracanal dressings and their influence on dentinal colour changes. Material and methods: eighty single-rooted human extracted teeth were decoronated and divided into eight groups (n=10) according to intracanal dressing protocols inserted into the root canals: G1­distilled water (DW); G2­2% chlorhexidine gel (CHX); G3­calcium hydroxide (Ca[OH]2)+DW; G4­grape seed extract (GSE)+DW; G5­ginger extract (GE)+DW; G6­Ca(OH)2+CHX; G7­GSE+CHX; and G8­GE+CHX. The antimicrobial activity was evaluated by colony-forming units (CFUs) counting and dentinal colour changes was evaluated by digital spectrophotometry. Data were statistically analysed by One-way ANOVA followed by Tukey´s post hoc test (antimicrobial evaluation) and non-parametric Wilcoxon followed by the Mann- Whitney-U test (colour change evaluation) (α=0.05). Results: the highest bacterial reduction was observed in groups 4, 6, 7 and 8, with no significant difference between them (p<0.05). Groups 4 and 7 showed the highest medians of dentinal colour change (p<0.05). Conclusion: the addition of CHX improved the antimicrobial activity of GE-based intracanal dressing, with no effect in GSE-based intracanal dressing; moreover, these protocols induced significant dentinal colour changes. (AU)

Objetivo: avaliar a atividade antimicrobiana de medicações intracanais e sua influência na alteração da cor dentinária. Materiais e métodos: oitenta dentes humanos extraídos unirradiculares foram seccionados e divididos em oito grupos (n = 10), de acordo com os protocolos de medicação intracanal inseridos nos canais radiculares: água destilada G1 (DW); G2-2% de gel de clorexidina (CHX); hidróxido de cálcio G3 ­ (Ca [OH] 2) + DW; extrato de semente de uva G4 (GSE) + DW; extrato de gengibre G5 (GE) + DW; G6- Ca (OH) 2 + CHX; G7 ­ GSE + CHX; e G8-GE + CHX. A atividade antimicrobiana foi avaliada por contagem de unidades formadoras de colônias (UFCs) e as alterações de cor dentinária foram avaliadas por espectrofotometria digital. Os dados foram analisados estatisticamente por ANOVA one-way, seguida pelo teste post hoc de Tukey (avaliação antimicrobiana) e Wilcoxon não paramétrico, seguido pelo teste de Mann- Whitney-U (avaliação da mudança de cor) (α = 0,05). Resultados: a maior redução bacteriana foi observada nos grupos 4, 6, 7 e 8, sem diferença significativa entre eles (p < 0,05). Os grupos 4 e 7 apresentaram as maiores medianas da alteração da cor dentinária (p < 0,05). Conclusão: a adição de CHX melhorou a atividade antimicrobiana da medicação intracanal baseado em GE, sem efeito na medicação intracanal baseado em GSE; além disso, esses protocolos induziram alterações significativas na cor dentinária.(AU)

Glycolic acid: Characterization of a new final irrigant and effects on flexural strength and structural integrity of dentin.

The aim of this study was to characterize glycolic acid (GA) and examine its effects on powder and flexural strength of dentin. Particle size and energy-dispersive EDS in GA powder was performed for chemical analysis. Surface tension and pH levels of ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA), citric acid (CA), and GA solutions were evaluated at different times and temperatures. Dentin powder and mineralized dentin beams were immersed for 1 min in EDTA, CA, or GA solutions and subjected to Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy for apatite/collagen ratio analysis and 3-point flexure test, respectively. GA showed the largest particle size (µm), and its surface tension was similar to that of EDTA and CA. Surface tension decreased in solutions of higher concentrations. GA showed pH stability at all times and temperatures evaluated. The apatite/collagen ratio reduced with increased GA concentrations, while flexural strength was not significantly affected by GA concentration. GA seems a good choice as a final irrigation solution after root canal preparation.

Antimicrobial activity of glycolic acid as a final irrigant solution for root canal preparation.

The objective of this study was to evaluate the antimicrobial capacity of glycolic acid (GA) at different concentrations as a final irrigant during the preparation of root canals. The sample consisted of 77 extracted single-rooted human teeth with complete root formation, no previous endodontic treatment, and a root length of at least 14 mm. The root canals were prepared in a standardized manner with a rotary file system. During this process, irrigation was performed with 2.5% sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl), and the final irrigant was 17% ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA). After the root canal sterilization procedure, Enterococcus faecalis was cultured in a Petri dish, and 70 sterilized root canals were inoculated with a suspension containing 3.0 × 108 colony-forming units (CFUs) per milliliter. The roots were divided into 7 groups (n = 10) according to the following solutions: 0.9% sodium chloride (NaCl); 6% NaOCl; 17% EDTA; 10%, 17%, or 25% GA; or 17% citric acid (CA). The capacity of the different substances to reduce E faecalis was evaluated by counting the CFUs before and after treatment with the final irrigant solutions. Data were subjected to an analysis of variance and the Tukey test at a 5% significance level. The greatest bacterial reduction was observed in the group irrigated with NaOCl (P < 0.05). There were no statistically significant differences among the groups irrigated with GA in different concentrations (P > 0.05), but they all demonstrated greater disinfection capacity than CA and EDTA (P < 0.05). CA showed significantly greater antimicrobial capacity than EDTA (P < 0.05). EDTA showed significantly greater antimicrobial capacity only in relation to NaCl (P < 0.05). At different concentrations, GA demonstrated greater capacity to eliminate E faecalis from root canals than did EDTA.

Antimicrobial effectiveness of grape seed extract against Enterococcus faecalis biofilm: A Confocal Laser Scanning Microscopy analysis.

This study evaluated the antimicrobial effectiveness of 6.5% Vitis vinifera grape seed extract (GSE) against Enterococcus faecalis biofilm using confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM). Saline solution (SS), 5.25% sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl) and 2% chlorhexidine (CHX) were used for comparison. Dentin discs were inoculated with E. faecalis strain establishing a 3-week-old biofilm. Discs (n = 10) were exposed to 5.25% NaOCl, 2% CHX, 6.5% GSE and SS (negative control) for 10 min. Discs were stained with the fluorescent LIVE/DEAD-BacLight™ dye and analysed using CLSM. The proportion of dead cells in biofilm was analysed using one-way anova and Tukey tests (P < 0.05). A higher proportion of dead cells was found in GSE group compared with CHX and SS (P < 0.05). NaOCl group was associated with the highest proportion of dead cells (P < 0.05). GSE presented antimicrobial activity against E. faecalis; however, NaOCl was the most effective irrigant solution. GSE was more effective than CHX and SS.

Association of calcium hypochlorite, reciprocating instrumentation and photodynamic therapy: Antimicrobial analysis and effects on root dentin structure.

INTRODUCTION: This study aimed to evaluate the antimicrobial action of calcium hypochlorite(Ca[OCl]2) and sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl) with reciprocating instrumentation and photodynamic therapy(PDT), and its influence on root dentin structure. METHODS: One hundred and ten human teeth were used to antimicrobial evaluation, inoculated with Enterococcus faecalis and divided into 11 groups (n = 10): G1 - distilled water(control); G2-1 % NaOCl; G3-5.25 % NaOCl; G4-1 % Ca(OCl)2; G5-5.25 % Ca(OCl)2; G6-PDT; G7-distilled water + PDT; G8-1 % NaOCl + PDT; G9-5.25 % NaOCl + PDT; G10-1 % Ca(OCl)2+PDT; G11-5.25 % Ca(OCl)2+PDT. In all groups, except G6, the root canals were instrumented with #R50 Reciproc file in the working length in association with tested chemical auxiliary substance. The counting of colony forming units (CFUs) was performed to calculate the bacterial percentage reduction of each group. Following, 55 bovine teeth were used to microhardness evaluation and divided into the same 11 groups (n = 5), with no instrumentation and immersion in the tested protocols. The modification of root dentin microhardness was evaluated by using the Vicker tester. Finally, 33 bovine teeth were used to organic components evaluation and divided into the same 11 groups (n = 3), with no instrumentation and immersion in the tested protocols. The modification of organic components of root dentin was evaluated by light microscopy. Specific statistical analysis was performed for each evaluation. RESULTS: The higher bacterial reduction was observed in groups 3,4,5,8,9,10 and 11, with no statistical difference between them (p > 0.05). The higher microhardness reduction was observed in groups 8,9,10 e 11, with no statistical difference between them (p > 0.05). The highest modification on organic components was observed in groups 3,5,9 and 11, with no statistical difference between them (p > 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: The association of Ca(OCl)2, reciprocating instrumentation and PDT promotes effective antimicrobial action. Moreover, lower modification was induced in microhardness and organic components of root dentin, by using Ca(OCl)2 in low concentration associated to PDT.

Assessment of the Ability of Different Cleaning Protocols to Remove Eugenol-based Endodontic Sealer from the Root Dentin.

AIM: The aim of this study is to assess three protocols for removing a eugenol-based filling endodontic sealer from root dentin and the bond strength of fiberglass posts luted with resin cement. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Sixty single-rooted bovine teeth were prepared and filled with the Endofill endodontic sealer and gutta-percha cones. After 7 days, 9 mm of the filling was removed and divided into five groups (n = 12) according to the cleaning protocol: G1 (negative control), unfilled; G2 (positive control), saline solution; G3, 95% alcohol; G4, amyl acetate; and G5, Largo bur. The canals were hybridized and fiberglass posts were luted with resin cement. They were cross-sectioned in slices of 1 mm and subjected to the push-out test. The other samples were sectioned longitudinally and visualized in a scanning electron microscope (SEM), and the existing chemical elements were quantified by energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS). The statistical analysis used variance analysis (ANOVA)-one way and Fisher's test, at a 5% significance level. RESULTS: The 95% alcohol was more effective for cleaning the canal, resulting in a clean dentinal surface and bond strength statistically similar to the negative control. The Largo bur was also statistically similar to the negative control, with only a few debris impregnated on the wall. Amyl acetate showed more sealer residues on the canal walls, with a consequent lower bond strength value than the other groups, only higher than the positive control. CONCLUSION: The 95% alcohol and Largo burs may be used after removing the canal filling, so that the bond strength is improved when using the eugenol-based sealer.

Glycolic acid as the final irrigant in endodontics: Mechanical and cytotoxic effects.

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of glycolic acid (GA) on the microhardness, roughness, dentin mineral content distribution; smear layer removal and cytotoxicity. One hundred human teeth were randomly divided into six groups: distilled water (control group), 17% EDTA, 10% citric acid (CA), 5% GA, 10% GA, and, 17% GA. Microhardness and roughness were measured in the canal lumen. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images (2000×) for smear layer removal evaluation; energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS) for chemical analysis. Cell viability assay was made on fibroblast cells. The lowest microhardness and higher roughness were observed for 17% GA. GA showed the ability to remove the smear layer to a similar level as EDTA and CA, with no statistical difference between the concentrations used. GA and CA were cytotoxic in a dose-dependent manner. GA showed potential as an endodontic agent for final irrigation in root canal terapies.

Influence of final irrigation protocols and type of resin cement on bond strength of glass fiber posts in root dentin previously treated with photodynamic therapy.

INTRODUCTION: This study aimed to evaluate the influence of final irrigation protocols and type of resin cement on the bond strength of glass fiber posts (GFPs) in root dentin previously treated with photodynamic therapy (PDT). METHODS: One hundred root canals were prepared up to #4 Gates Glidden drill to receive the GFPs. All samples were subjected to PDT, and randomly divided into five groups (n = 20) according to final irrigation protocol: distilled water + ultrasonic activation [US]; 17% EDTA; QMix; 17% EDTA + US; and QMix + US. Each group was randomly divided into 2 subgroups (n = 10) according to the type of resin cement used for cementation of GFPs: Rely-X ARC dual-resin; or Rely-X U200 (#M, St Paul, MN, USA) self-adhesive resin cement. Bond strength was evaluated using the push-out test. Failure patterns were observed under an optical microscope. Bond strengths were compared using two-way ANOVA, followed by the Tukey post-hoc test; failure modes were compared using the chi-squared test (α = 5%). RESULTS: The use of US over final irrigants improved the bond strength of GFPs, regardless of resin cement used (p < 0.05). The type of resin cement did not influence the bond strength of GFPs (p < 0.05). There was a higher predominance of cohesive failure in all groups, regardless of resin cement tested (p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: The use of US on final irrigation improved the bond strength of GFPs, while the type of resin cement (dual or self-adhesive) did not influence the bond strength of GFPs in root dentin previously treated with PDT.