Effect of Sterilization and Irrigation on Surface Roughness of Ni-Ti Rotary Instruments: An In-Vitro Study

Abstract

The cornerstone of contemporary root canal therapy lies in the chemo-mechanical preparation of the root canals. This involves both shaping and the application of intracanal irrigants within the canals to ensure optimal disinfection of the system.¹ Effective sterilization and disinfection are essential for controlling infections within dental settings, helping to minimize healthcare-associated infections and enhance patient safety.²

This study aimed to assess the individual change along with a comparative evaluation between the surface roughness of TruNatomy and RaceEvo Ni-Ti endodontic instruments after sterilization by autoclave, dynamic immersion in 3% Sodium Hypochlorite (NaOCl) followed by 17% Ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) or 17% EDTA followed by 2% Chlorhexidine (CHX) used as endodontic irrigants. Evaluation of surface roughness was done by using Scanning Electron Microscope.

Statistical analysis performed using the SPSS statistical software 23.0 Version concluded that autoclaving and dynamic immersion in 3% NaOCl, 17% EDTA and 2% CHX irrigants cumulatively increased surface roughness of Ni-Ti rotary files. RaceEvo file system consistently showed higher surface roughness in comparison to TruNatomy file system across multiple treatment cycles. Autoclaving showed the least increase in surface roughness. Autoclaving followed by dynamic immersion in 3% NaOCl and 17% EDTA showed highest surface roughness alterations in both the file systems.