ABSTRACT
Sodium hypochlorite [NaOC1] is an effective antimicrobial irrigant, however its toxic effects and deterrent odor are not ideal. Carvacrol is an edible plant extract with anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties that is effective against Enterococcus [E] faecalis. The aim of this study was to evaluate Carvacrol's antibacterial efficacy against E. faecalis bacteria as a final irrigant. Forty extracted single-rooted human teeth were utilized. After mechanical preparations, samples were randomly divided into three experimental [A, B and C] and two control groups. E. faecalis was cultured in both experimental and positive control groups. After bacterial counting in all canals, 5.25% NaOC1, 0.6% Carvacrol emulsion and MTAD were used as final irrigants in groups A, B and C respectively. Data were analyzed using Kruskal-Wallis and Mann-Whitney Utests. There was no meaningful difference in bacterial reduction between groups A and B; however, group C showed significantly lower efficacy compared to other groups [P<0.05]. The 0.6% Carvacrol disinfects root canals effectively. It also has anti-inflammatory qualities and therefore may be an acceptable alternative for NaOC1