Antibacterial activity and smear layer removal efficiency of silver nanoparticles as a final irrigant against Enterococcus faecalis using confocal laser scanning microscopy and scanning electron microscopy
Introduction:
Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) have garnered significant attention for their potent antibacterial properties, making them promising candidates for use as root canal irrigants in endodontics. The persistent presence of
Materials and Methods:
After decoronation, mandibular premolar, single-rooted, teeth (120) were instrumented until ProTaper Gold F3. In all samples, inoculation of
Results:
The minimum reduction in live bacteria percentage was seen in Group C rather than Groups A and B; although there was no significant difference between them. Group D showed the maximum percentage of live bacteria and a greatest score of smear layer compared to other groups. In contrast to Group B, Group A scored higher, although the results were nonsignificant. Group C showed the least score of smear layer presence. The
Conclusion:
Both neem-synthesized AgNp and sodium hypochlorite irrigants reduced the proportion of viable bacteria most significantly. This work demonstrates the possibility of employing nanoparticles as an irrigant that can effectively remove smear layers while also acting as an antimicrobial.
