Article PDF :

Veiw Full Text PDF

Article type :

Original Article

Author :

Chinmaye T L, Sohail Yasin*, Mohan Thomas Nainan, Nirupama D N, Vijay Ramakrishna, Helen Thomas

Volume :

10

Issue :

1

Abstract :

Aim: The aim of the study was to compare and evaluate the antimicrobial efficacy of 3 different herbal irrigants using manual irrigation technique through colony forming unit assays against Enterococcus faecalis (E. faecalis) as intracanal irrigants. Background/Introduction: Enterococcus faecalis is a predominant pathogen associated with persistent endodontic infections and root canal treatment failures. Effective irrigation is crucial for eradicating these bacteria from the complex root canal system. Sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl) is widely used for its potent antimicrobial properties, but its cytotoxicity and potential tissue irritation raise concerns. Herbal alternatives such as Triphala, Tea Tree Oil, and Green Tea have exhibited antibacterial activity, making them potential substitutes for conventional irrigants. However, limited research has directly compared their efficacy in root canal disinfection. Materials and Methods: Intact, caries-free, single-rooted mandibular 1st premolars extracted for orthodontic purposes were selected. The teeth were decoronated below the cementoenamel junction to a uniform root length of 15mm and were divided into 6 groups based on irrigants: G1 (Positive control: saline irrigation), G2 (Negative control: no inoculation or treatment), G3 (2.5% NaOCl), G4 (Triphala), G5 (Tea Tree Oil), and G6 (Green Tea). First set of samples were collected at 21 days post-inoculation and the second sample was taken post irrigation. Microbiological samples were incubated at 37°C for 18-24 hours to obtain CFU counts. Data were analyzed using Kruskal Wallis and Dunn’s post hoc tests for pre-treatment and post-treatment CFU comparison, and Wilcoxon Signed Rank Test for within-group analysis. Results: Results showed that Groups 3, 4, 5, and 6 significantly reduced CFUs (p < 0> Conclusion: In conclusion, Triphala, Tea Tree Oil, and Green Tea showed significant antibacterial activity against E. faecalis, with Tea Tree Oil being the most effective after Sodium Hypochlorite. While herbal alternatives may offer benefits due to the drawbacks of NaOCl, further research is required on their preparation, biocompatibility, and toxicity before clinical use.