In Vitro Evaluation of Sealing Ability of Biodentine and TheraCal PT in Primary Molars.

Background: A major objective in the management of deep carious lesions involving proximal surfaces of primary molars is to control marginal leakage. This could occur due to dimensional changes or failure in the adaptation of pulp capping materials to the prepared cavity. Evaluation of microleakage is important for assessing the success of newer pulp capping materials. Introduction: Biodentine exhibits good sealing ability but possesses longer setting times and handling difficulties, which might delay the placement of the final restoration. The sealing ability of newer dual-cure calcium silicate-based material in TheraCal PT in class II cavities of primary molars is not known. Hence, the current study aimed to evaluate and compare the microleakage of Biodentine and TheraCal PT in primary molars. Materials and methods: Extracted, noncarious primary molars (n = 28) were collected, and standardized class II cavities were prepared and restored with Biodentine (group I) and TheraCal PT (group II). Following this type, IX glass ionomer cement (GIC) was placed and polished. Microleakage was assessed using the dye penetration method, and data obtained through stereomicroscopic analysis were statistically analyzed. Results: The mean microleakage score observed in group I was 2.0 ± 1.3 MPa, and in group II was 1.0 ± 1.1 MPa. Comparable sealing ability was observed between both groups (p = 0.061). Conclusion: TheraCal PT could be used as a suitable alternative to Biodentine for use in vital pulp therapeutic procedures in children to reduce the treatment time and improve sealing ability. How to cite this article: Anusha B, Shivashankarappa PG, Mohandoss S, et al. In Vitro Evaluation of Sealing Ability of Biodentine and TheraCal PT in Primary Molars. Int J Clin Pediatr Dent 2024;17(2):158-161.

Feasible and economic DIY procedures of a hand-held fluorescence detector set-FluorDetector to assist laboratory course development.

Fluorescence-related experimental techniques play an important role in biochemistry, molecular biology, and cell biology. However, fluorescence-related experiments are rarely included in the laboratory courses of most Chinese universities. This is mainly due to the conflict between large class size (50-60 students in one room) and funding/space limitations to purchase and accommodate enough fluorescence detection equipment. Here, we proposed feasible and economical Do It Yourself (DIY) procedures of a hand-held fluorescence detector set-FluorDetector to support the development of laboratory courses. Tested on several samples, clear fluorescence signals could be directly observed by FluorDetector and photographed with a smartphone. In addition, FluorDetector was able to turn a conventional stereomicroscope into a fluorescence stereomicroscope, detecting fluorescence signals with clean background. FluorDetector is easy to make with a 3D printer, with an extremely low cost ($200 each) when compared with a commercial fluorescence microscope or fluorescence stereomicroscope, and almost as sensitive as a microplate reader in measuring fluorescence. Therefore, FluorDetector is a possible strategy to solve the problem and help to integrate fluorescence-related experimental modules in laboratory courses.

Cleaning efficacy and debris extrusion of supplementary file systems XP-endo Finisher and XP-endo Finisher R in endodontic retreatment.

Aim: To evaluate cleaning efficacy and debris extrusion of supplementary file systems XP Endo Finisher (XPEF) and XP Endo Finisher R (XPEFR) in endodontic retreatment. Materials and Methods: Thirty single-rooted teeth with single canals were selected, canal preparation done till file #30 6% and obturation completed using lateral condensation technique with AH Plus sealer. The samples were stored at 37°C in a 100% humidity incubator for 7 days. The samples were distributed across the three groups according to the method of retreatment (n = 10): Group I: Neo Endo retreatment (NER) files, Group II: NER files + XPEF, and Group III: NER files + XPEFR. Removal of gutta percha using each file system according to the distributed groups was performed. The extruded debris was collected in an Eppendorf tube, dried in a hot air oven, and weighed. Teeth were sliced longitudinally using carborundum discs. Coronal, middle, and apical thirds were assessed for cleaning efficacy under a stereomicroscope. Results were tabulated and subjected to the statistical analysis using the Kruskal-Wallis H-test followed by post hoc turkey HSD test. All statistical tests were carried out at significance level P < 0.05. Results: It was seen that Group II (NER files + XPEF) exhibited better cleaning efficacy than Group III (NER files + XPEFR), although the results were not statistically significant. Greater debris extrusion was seen with Group III when compared to Group II. Conclusion: Supplementary files XPEF/XPEFR enhance the cleaning efficacy in endodontic retreatment, but the debris extrusion of XPEFR is more than XPEF.

Comparative evaluation of the accuracy of two electronic apex locators in detecting simulated incomplete vertical root fractures: An in vitro stereomicroscopic study.

Aim: The aim of this study was to compare the accuracy of two different electronic apex locators (EALs) in detecting simulated incomplete vertical root fractures (VRFs). Materials and Methods: Thirty freshly extracted single-rooted teeth were randomly divided into three groups of 10 teeth each labeled as Groups A, B, and C. Incomplete VRFs were simulated in the coronal, middle, and apical one-third of the roots for Groups A, B, and C, respectively. The teeth were embedded in alginate mold and fracture location was determined with Root ZX and Propex EALs for each sample and each group. To calculate the actual length (AL), each sample was sectioned at the upper level of the vertical fracture, and the length was measured by setting the stopper of the #10 K file under a stereomicroscope at ×30 magnification. The electronic lengths and ALs were compared using computer software, and the results were analyzed using SPSS 28.0 at a 95% confidence level. Results: No significant differences were seen in the accuracy of the two EALs when compared with ALs. Root ZX showed significantly longer measurements than ALs in groups B and C. Conclusion: The tested EALs showed low accuracy (20%) in detecting simulated incomplete VRFs with a tendency for longer measurements compared to ALs.

Comparative Evaluation of Cutting Efficiency of Three File Systems-Kedo-SH Manual, Pedoflex Rotary, and Manual K File: An In Vitro Study.

Aims: The purpose of this study was to comparatively evaluate the cutting efficiency of Pedoflex rotary, Kedo SH manual file, and manual K file systems used in root canal instrumentation while performing pulp therapy of deciduous teeth with a stereomicroscope. Materials and Methods: Forty-five extracted primary human root canals were chosen, and following the removal of pulp tissue, the canals were dyed with Indian ink and left to dry for 2 h. The samples were randomly divided into three groups, Group A: Kedo SH manual file system (n = 15), Group B: Pedoflex rotary file system (n = 15), and Group C: Manual K files (n = 15). After root canal instrumentation, all the root canals were cleared to make them transparent. The teeth after clearing were observed under stereomicroscope and scored according to the amount of dye present in the root canals. The data were tabulated and statistically analyzed with SPSS version 16 using Chi-square, Kruskal-Wallis, and Dunn's test (post-hoc). Results: With regards to cutting efficiency, there was a statistically noteworthy difference among groups A and C [P = 0.000] and groups B and C [P = 0.000]. Furthermore, groups A and B did not differ statistically significantly [P = 0.950]. Conclusions: Cutting efficacy of the Pedoflex rotary files was seen to be superior to that of Kedo SH and manual K files. Clinical Significance: Rotary files in deciduous teeth have various benefits over manual files, resulting in a noticeable reduction in working time, which has aided in maintaining patient participation by reducing the risk for fatigue. We conclude that NiTi rotary devices result in a superior cutting efficiency and, as a result, greater clinical success.

Comparative evaluation of incidence of dentinal defects after root canal preparation using three different endodontic retreatment systems - An in vitro study.

Context: Safe and efficient removal of all root filling materials from the root canal system without compromising radicular dentin structure is essential for optimal nonsurgical retreatment. Aims: The aim of this study was to evaluate and compare the incidence of dentinal defects caused during root canal filling removal using conventional, rotary, and reciprocating retreatment file systems. Settings and Design: A detailed protocol explaining purpose and procedures of the study was submitted to the Institutional Ethics Committee and ethical clearance obtained. Subjects and Methods: Sixty human maxillary permanent central incisors were collected and decoronated to 12-mm standardized length. The canals prepared up to a master apical file size F3 with Protaper hand files, obturated using AH plus sealer, examined under the stereomicroscope (×40 magnification): Group I: Control (n = 15), Group II: Conventional (n = 15), Group III: Protaper Universal Retreatment Files (n = 15), and Group IV: Reciproc Blue (n = 15). After instrumentation, teeth were sectioned at 3, 6, and 9 mm from the apex to evaluate the presence of dentinal defects under the stereomicroscope. Statistical Analysis Used: Statistics were performed using the SPSS, version, 25 (SPSS Inc., Chicago, IL, USA). Initially, normality test was done using the Shapiro-Wilk test and data were not normally distributed followed by Kruskal-Wallis test. P < 0.05 is considered statistically significant. Results: Maximum percentage increase in dentinal defects was observed in Protaper Universal Retreatment Files followed by Conventional method and Reciproc Blue. Conclusions: Significantly Reciproc Blue reduced the incidence of dentinal defects after root canal preparation.

Comparative Evaluation of Luting Efficacy Between a Dual-Cure and Light-Cure Resin Cement on Its Application on Root Surface Indirect Restorations: An In Vitro Study.

Aim The aim is to evaluate the degree of dye penetration between a dual-cure and conventional resin cement on its application on the root surface indirect restorations to provide a reference for clinical choice. Materials and methods Ten freshly extracted human maxillary central anteriors were selected and randomly divided into two groups of five each. Teeth were prepared for veneer restoration, and veneers were luted using two groups of cements Calibra veneer cement and Fusion Ultra D/C cement. After they were immersed in methylene blue dye solution for 24 h, the specimens were then sectioned buccolingual into three halves in a parallel vertical plane and measured dye penetration using a stereomicroscope (Zeiss). The data collected was recorded by the dye penetration index (0-4) and statistically analyzed using the IBM SPSS Statistics for Windows, Version 24 (Released 2016; IBM Corp., Armonk, New York, United States). Results It is evident that group 1 (Calibra veneer cement) showed the lowest mean score of 0.43 mm and group 2 (Fusion Ultra D/C) showed a highest mean score of 0.72 mm. Overall, when the two groups were compared for microleakage using SPSS, there was a significant difference among the groups. Conclusion It was determined that both the resin cements evaluated in this study showed microleakage to some level given the limits of the investigation and the findings. To evaluate the dye penetration of microleakage, the Calibra veneer resin cement showed a better marginal adaptability for veneer restoration. Further investigations with broader methodology and more clinical simulation are needed to evaluate other resin cements available for root surface indirect restorations to be analyzed for prospective clinical outcomes.

Comparative Evaluation of the Incidence of Dentin Microcracks Following Biomechanical Preparation Using Four Different Nickel-Titanium Rotary File Systems: An In Vitro Study.

INTRODUCTION: Biomechanical preparation has gotten easier over time with the development of nickel-titanium (NiTi) rotary instruments. Despite their benefits, research has shown that these files frequently result in microcracks in the root canal dentin, which can fracture the roots. Such mishaps should be prevented, as they compromise the integrity of the root and reduce the long-term survival of endodontically treated teeth. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This study was conducted at Government Dental College and Hospital, Patiala, Punjab, India. Eighty permanent mandibular premolar teeth were included. All the roots were inspected for any pre-existing cracks or craze lines under a stereomicroscope. The teeth were decoronated and then divided into four groups (n = 20): Group I: TruNatomy, Group II: Neoendo Flex, Group III: ProTaper Gold, and Group IV: 2Shape. The samples were instrumented according to the group to which they belonged. The roots were then sectioned horizontally at 3 mm and 6 mm from the apex and examined under a stereomicroscope at 40x for the presence of microcracks. RESULTS: The data were analyzed using the IBM SPSS Statistics for Windows, version 26 (released 2019; IBM Corp., Armonk, New York, United States). A chi-square test was applied, and the level of significance was set at p < 0.05. The highest incidence of microcracks was associated with ProTaper Gold (65%), followed by Neoendo Flex (45%), TruNatomy (20%), and 2Shape (20%). CONCLUSION:  All rotary instruments resulted in dentinal damage. ProTaper Gold exhibited the highest frequency of dentin cracks. TruNatomy and 2Shape exhibited satisfactory results with minimal crack formation.

How Does Intentional Apical Foraminal Enlargement Affect the Foramen and Root Canal Morphology?

INTRODUCTION: This study assessed the effect of intentional foraminal enlargement on the foramen and the apical root canal morphology. METHOD: Sixty mesial roots of mandibular molars were scanned by micro-computed tomography. Their apical foramina were photographed with a stereomicroscope before and after preparation. Three groups were formed (n = 20) according to the working length (WL). G-1: foramen - 1 mm; G0: foramen; and G+1: foramen + 1 mm. Each group originated 2 subgroups (n = 10): G-1: Buchanan's patency (size 10 K-type file) and foraminal debridement (sizes 20, 25 and 30 K-type files); G0 and G+1: rotary foraminal enlargement (ProDesign S size 25/.08) or reciprocating foraminal enlargement (R25). The area, perimeter, transportation, and noninstrumented walls of the foramen were evaluated. The root canal transportation and the centering index of preparation at 1, 3 and 5 mm from the foramen were also assessed. Data were compared statistically (α = 5%). RESULTS: The instruments used at the foramen and 1 mm beyond promoted foraminal enlargement and transportation. Regarding NIW, there was no difference between mechanized foraminal enlargements performed at the foramen or 1 mm beyond, similar to the manual foraminal debridement group (P > .05). There was no difference in transportation and centralization at 1-, 3-, and 5-mm apical levels, regardless of the instrumentation systems. CONCLUSION: Mechanical preparation at the foramen, or 1 mm beyond, resulted in foraminal enlargement, transportation and were not able to touch all root canal walls that delimit the foramen.

Comparative Evaluation of Sealing Ability of Moisture-tolerant Sealant and Glass Ionomer Sealant Using Stereomicroscope: An In Vitro Study.

Introduction/background: The preventive benefits of pit and fissure sealants rely on their retention and sealing ability. The drawback of the conventional pit and fissure sealant is its poor retention due to the presence of moisture. Among the numerous pit and fissure sealants available, newer hydrophilic sealants are ideal for children. This study evaluates and compares the sealing ability of hydrophilic sealant Embrace WetBond with conventionally used glass ionomer sealant under a stereomicroscope. Materials and methods: A total of 48 extracted human premolars were randomly divided into two groups (N = 24) and sealed with Embrace WetBond and GC Fuji VII as per manufacturers' instructions. Following thermocycling, the sectioned samples were evaluated for sealant penetration, unfilled space, and total length of fissure under a stereomicroscope at magnifications 2.5×, 4×, and 5×. The values were measured in microns and in various fissure types using the "ImageJ app" to measure the sealant penetrability and sealing ability. The data recorded were statistically evaluated. Results: The penetrability of moisture-tolerant sealant was better (87.8 ± 10.7) compared to that of glass ionomer sealant (73.8 ± 15.5) (p = 0.002). Among the samples, U-type fissure patterns displayed greater penetrability (94.2 ± 6.2), whereas IK-type fissures revealed the lowest degree of penetrability (67.5 ± 7.3). Conclusion: Embrace WetBond is better than glass ionomer sealant with respect to penetrability and sealing ability under stereomicroscope hence recommended as a better sealant for pediatric clinical practice. How to cite this article: Priscilla S, Shivashankarappa PG, Mohandoss S, et al. Comparative Evaluation of Sealing Ability of Moisture-tolerant Sealant and Glass Ionomer Sealant Using Stereomicroscope: An In Vitro Study. Int J Clin Pediatr Dent 2023;16(S-1):S67-S71.

Comparison of Root Dentinal Crack Formation after Coronal Pre-Flaring using Different Rotary Instruments: An In vitro Study.

Background and Objectives: The aim of this study was to see the incidence of cracks in root dentin after coronal flaring using various rotary instruments such as Gates Glidden (GG) drills, ProTaper Universal SX, OneFlare, and HyFlex EDM. Materials and Methods: Seventy freshly extracted premolar teeth with single canal were collected. All the teeth were randomly divided into five groups of fourteen each (n = 14), of which one group served as the control and the rest of the four groups were instrumented with GG drills, ProTaper Universal SX, OneFlare, and HyFlex EDM, respectively. Results: The GG drills resulted in a higher rate of crack formation in root dentin (P < 0.05) than the ProTaper Universal SX, OneFlare, and HyFlex EDM instruments (P > 0.05). Conclusion: The use of GG drills resulted in more crack formation. However, the results for the ProTaper Universal SX, OneFlare, and HyFlex EDM flaring instruments were less in terms of crack formation.

An investigation on the prevalence of microplastic in commercial and open pan salts obtained from Cox's Bazar and Maheshkhali region of Bay of Bengal (Bangladesh).

Unrestrained utilization of plastic has reached an intemperate state, menacing environment and human lives. The preliminary focus of this research was to investigate and divulge the contemporary status of microplastics (MPs) in commercialized and open pan salts from Cox's Bazar and Maheshkhali channels. A total of 27 samples were obtained. The samples were analyzed for the prevalence of MPs by FTIR and Raman spectroscopy (RS); the prevailing amount, color, size, and shapes were analyzed by stereomicroscope and SEM. The abundance of high-density polyethylene, polyethylene terephthalate (PET), and low-density polyethylene (LDPE) were detected by FTIR, meanwhile exuberance of cellulose acetate, polypropylene, PET, LDPE, and Nylon 6 were identified by RS. The average quantifications of MPs in Cox's Bazar, Maheshkhali, and packaged salts were found to be 6851.11 ± 538.18, 5638.89 ± 1001.18, and 3405.56 ± 638.57 per kg, respectively. ANOVA resulted in highly significant association between MPs and sampling sites (p = .001*). Post hoc Tukey's test revealed prominent link between commercialized and open pan salts based on the amount of MPs (p = .001*). The most prevalent colors were purple (28%) and blue (27%). The most frequent shapes were fibrous (79%) and fragmented (19.9%) MPs. The smallest MP was detected in commercial salt (1.55 µm), nearly identical and closer to the size of nanoplastics.

A comparative evaluation of fracture resistance of tooth restoration complex restored with PEEK and lithium disilicate endocrowns.

PURPOSE: This in vitro study was conducted to compare the fracture resistance of tooth restoration complex restored with polyetheretherketone (PEEK) and lithium disilicate endocrowns. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 46 extracted premolars were collected and treated endodontically. The teeth were mounted in cylindrical molds using autopolymerizing resin and were prepared for endocrown restoration. Specimens were divided into two groups (n = 23) to receive endocrowns made with two different materials (polyetheretherketone and lithium disilicate). All the specimens were subjected to thermal cycling. The fracture resistance test was carried out using a Universal Testing Machine. Fractographic analysis was carried out using stereomicroscope and scanning electron microscope after load test. The values obtained were subjected to statistical analysis. Intergroup comparison (two groups) was performed using a t-test. Comparison of frequencies of categories of variables with groups was performed using chi-square test. RESULTS: Fracture resistance tests showed a statistically significant difference in values between the two groups (p < 0.01). High fracture resistance values were seen with lithium disilicate endocrowns. Failure mode analysis showed that both groups exhibited mainly catastrophic failure. There were no significant differences in frequencies of the type of fracture between the groups. CONCLUSION: The fracture resistance of endocrowns fabricated with lithium disilicate material was found to be significantly higher than polyetheretherketone (PEEK) material. Hence, lithium disilicate material is superior for endocrowns.

Stereomicroscopic Aspects of Non-Carious Cervical Lesions.

Non-carious cervical lesions (NCCLs) represent a form of tooth wear, characterized by the irreversible loss of dental hard tissues at the enamel-cement junction, without the involvement of caries and dental trauma. The aim of this study was to highlight the morphological elements of NCCLs via their stereomicroscopic examination and to confirm the role of this examination in the diagnosis of early lesions. In addition, the association between the morphological aspects identified during the stereomicroscopic examination of NCCLs and their etiological factors was determined. For this study, extracted teeth with NCCLs were examined with a stereomicroscope. The morphological aspects of NCCLs were evaluated at magnifications up to 75×. In wedge-shaped NCCLs, the stereomicroscopic examination allowed the identification and measurement of scratches, furrows and cracks. In saucer-shaped NCCLs, the stereomicroscopic examination highlighted the smooth appearance of the walls. The presented study highlighted the role of stereomicroscopic examination in the assessment of NCCL morphology and in their early diagnosis. The study confirmed, in particular, the role of occlusal overloads and tooth brushing in determining the morphology of NCCLs.

Morphology and morphometry of the spinal cord and meninges in Egyptian Baladi goat (Capra hircus): Stereomicroscopy of blue-stained gray matter.

The study objective is to obtain normal morphology and morphometric data from Baladi goat spinal cord segments. Using Tompsett's technique for staining gray matter with a blue stain allowed us to calculate the quantity or area of gray and white matter and thus the total area of each segment. The spinal cord of the goat started at the extent of the middle-third of the occipital condyles, and the tapered end of the spinal cord terminated at the center of the first sacral vertebra. The total length of the spinal cord was 73.3 ± 2.5 cm on average. C3 was the longest spinal segment, measuring 3.95 cm. The gray matter area had a high value at the cervical and lumbar enlargements, with C8 having the highest value of gray matter cross sectional area at 12 mm2 and C7 having the highest value of white matter cross sectional area at 42 mm2 . The area of white matter of the cervical region was higher than that of the other spinal regions. At C7, the total cross section area reached its maximum of 53 mm2 . The cervical enlargement included segments from C6 to T1, while the lumbar enlargement included L5 to S1. The dura mater is connected cranially to the dens of the axis and caudally to the fourth and fifth lumbar vertebrae. The epidural space height between lumbar vertebrae was 2 mm in all lumbar spaces and 3 mm in the lumbosacral space. The normal morphology and morphometric data of the goat spinal cord segments may be useful in pathological conditions of the spinal cord and during epidural anaesthesia technique.

Rhizosphere frame system enables nondestructive live-imaging of legume-rhizobium interactions in the soil.

Most plants interact with various soil microorganisms as they grow through the soil. Root nodule symbiosis by legumes and rhizobia is a well-known phenomenon of plant-microbe interactions in the soil. Although microscopic observations are useful for understanding the infection processes of rhizobia, nondestructive observation methods have not been established for monitoring interactions between rhizobia and soil-grown roots. In this study, we constructed Bradyrhizobium diazoefficiens strains that constitutively express different fluorescent proteins, which allows identification of tagged rhizobia by the type of fluorophores. In addition, we constructed a plant cultivation device, Rhizosphere Frame (RhizoFrame), which is a soil-filled container made of transparent acrylic plates that allows observation of roots growing along the acrylic plates. Combining fluorescent rhizobia with RhizoFrame, we established a live imaging system, RhizoFrame system, that enabled us to track the nodulation processes with fluorescence stereomicroscope while retaining spatial information about roots, rhizobia, and soil. Mixed inoculation with different fluorescent rhizobia using RhizoFrame enabled the visualization of mixed infection of a single nodule with two strains. In addition, observation of transgenic Lotus japonicus expressing auxin-responsive reporter genes indicated that RhizoFrame system could be used for a real-time and nondestructive reporter assay. Thus, the use of RhizoFrame system is expected to enhance the study of the spatiotemporal dynamics of plant-microbe interactions in the soil.

Effects of the conventional, soft start, and pulse delay modes produced by light-emitting diode device on metal brackets bond strength and enamel damage: An in vitro comparative study.

OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to compare the bond strength and enamel damage following debonding of metal brackets cured by different light-curing modes: conventional, soft start, and pulse delay modes. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Sixty extracted upper premolars were randomly divided into three groups according to the used light-curing mode. Metal brackets were bonded with a light-emitting diode device employing different modes. Group 1: conventional mode (10s mesial+10 s distal); group 2: soft start mode (15s mesial+15s distal); group 3: pulse delay mode (3s mesial+3s distal, followed by 3min of no photoactivation, then 9s mesial+9s distal). Radiant exposure was the same in all study groups. Shear bond strengths of the brackets were tested with a universal testing machine. A stereomicroscope was used to determine the number and length of enamel microcracks. One-Way ANOVA and Kruskal-Wallis tests were used to detect significant differences in shear bond strength and microcracks number and length among groups. RESULTS: The soft start and pulse delay modes produced significantly greater shear bond strength than the conventional mode (19.46±4.90MPa; 20.47±4.97MPa; 12.14±3.79MPa, respectively, P<0.001). However, there was no significant difference between the soft start and pulse delay groups (P=0.768). The number and length of microcracks increased significantly after debonding in all study groups. The change in microcracks length was not different among study groups. CONCLUSION: The soft start and pulse delay modes produced greater bond strength than the conventional mode without predisposing enamel to higher risk of damage. Conservative methods for debonding are still required.

Evaluating the Efficacy of Certain Intermediate Irrigants in Preventing Precipitate Formed Due to Sodium Hypochlorite and Chlorhexidine Within the Root Canal System: An In Vitro Study.

AIM: Root canal irrigation using a mixture of sodium hypochlorite (NaOCL) and chlorhexidine gluconate (CHX) might cause a precipitate to develop. This study aims to check the efficacy of sodium thiosulfate and normal saline as irrigating solutions. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Roots of 45 teeth were biomechanically prepared, and the teeth were then tested. A size 15k file was introduced to the point where the apical foramen could be visible in order to provide an accurate reading of the working length. As a precaution against irrigating solutions leaking out, the specimens' tips were sealed with modeling wax before being instrumented. Each group's root canals were instrumented with #F4 hand Protaper (Dentsply Sirona, USA) as recommended by the manufacturer. Between instrumentation, The canals were lubricated with ethylenediamine tetraacetic acid (EDTA) and irrigated with 2.5% sodium hypochlorite (RC Help, Prime Dental, Mumbai, India). Fifteen samples were randomly assigned to one of three experimental categories based on the middle watering arrangement used: Group 1 (control), Group 2 (saline irrigant), and Group 3 (3.86% sodium thiosulfate). The jewel plate was submerged in water to cool it down, while two longitudinal scores were made on the root's buccal and lingual surfaces. We used a stereomicroscope to examine the exposed surfaces of the root trench in the coronal, middle, and apical thirds for the orange-earthy colored material (Stereozoom Nikon magnifying lens under 20X amplification), and we used the Mann-Whitney U test and the Kruskal Wallis test during our thorough analysis. RESULTS: The precipitation generated in the coronal, middle, and apical thirds had significantly different thicknesses. While precipitation did occur in all three regions, it was at a much lower rate in the apical third compared to the coronal and middle regions. In Group 1, the control group, the precipitate was thicker than in Groups 2 (saline irrigant) and 3 (3.86% sodium thiosulfate). CONCLUSION: Sodium thiosulfate, which is a biocompatible solution, can be used as an intermediate irrigant as it shows less precipitate as compared to saline.

Evaluation of root canal cleaning efficacy of selfadjusting files, protaper rotary, and manual K-Files in primary teeth - An In vitro Comparative study.

Background: The success of pulpectomy depends on complete eradication of microbial load by cleaning and shaping the primary root canals that is difficult to achieve because of anatomical intricacy of primary pulp dentin complex. Numerous instruments were tried, however, they proved to be inadequate. Selfadjusting file (SAF) is a newer file system that facilitates less dentin removal with maximal cleansing of root canals. Aim: To evaluate and compare the in vitro root canal cleaning efficacy with SAF, Protaper Universal, and Hand K-files in primary teeth. Materials and Methods: Sixty extracted primary anterior teeth were randomly divided into three groups by lottery method. Access cavity was prepared, the canals were enlarged up to 20 K file, and an Indian ink was injected into each canal. Then the Group I (n = 20) was treated with SAF, Group II (n = 20) with Rotary Protaper Universal and Group III (n = 20) with Hand K-files and the root canal cleaning efficacy was evaluated based on the amount of Indian ink remaining in the canal walls under stereomicroscopy. Data were analyzed using Kruskal-Wallis one way ANOVA test and post hoc Tuckey test for intragroup and intergroup comparison, respectively. Results: A statistically highly significant difference was observed with SAF (mean = 1.5), Protaper (mean = 2.5), and Hand K-files (mean = 2.9). However, there was no significant difference in root canal cleaning efficacy with Protaper Universal and Hand K-files. Conclusion: The SAFs had shown superior cleaning efficacy compared with rotary Protaper Universal and manual K files.

A Simple and Reproducible Stereomicroscopic Method to Assess Fungal Biofilms: Application to Antifungal Susceptibility Testing.

Candida albicans, a well-known opportunistic pathogen, is a major cause of human fungal infections. Biofilm formation is considered an important pathogenesis factor. Biofilms are less sensitive to antibiotics and immune responses, allowing them to colonize and persist in host niches. Biofilm screening is important in the identification of anti-biofilm drugs. However, developing nations, with limited financial resources, often do not have access to advanced scientific equipment. Here, we describe an in vitro, protocol using common materials and simple equipment to evaluate static microbial biofilms.