Introduction: This study compared the efficacy of BioPure MTAD (Dentsply Tulsa, Tulsa, OK), 17% EDTA, and 42% citric acid in endodontic smear layer removal and degree of erosion in the apical third of endodontic canals. Methods: Ninety-six extracted single-rooted human teeth were randomized into four groups (n = 24) and instrumented using System GT nickel-titanium rotary instruments (Dentsply Tulsa, Tulsa, OK). Each canal was irrigated with one of the following solutions: BioPure MTAD, 17% EDTA, 42% citric acid, or 5.25% NaOCl (control). Next, all specimens were irrigated with 5.25% NaOCl. Results: Evaluation by scanning electron microscopy showed no significant differences among test irrigants in removing the smear layer. However, the efficacy of BioPure MTAD and 17% EDTA in removing the smear layer was significantly greater than 5.25% NaOCl (control). The erosive effects of irrigating solutions could not be evaluated. Conclusions: In conclusion, the protocols used in this study were not sufficient to completely remove the smear layer in the apical third of prepared root canals. (J Endod 2009;35:900-903)

Background:There are various microorganisms related to intra and extra-radicular infections and many of these are involved in persistent infections. Bacterial elimination from the root canal is achieved by means of the mechanical action of instruments and irrigation as well as the antibacterial effects of the irrigating solutions. Enterococcus faecalis can frequently be isolated from root canals in cases of failed root canal treatments. Antimicrobial agents have often been developed and optimized for their activity against endodontic bacteria. An ideal root canal irrigant should be biocompatible, because of its close contact with the periodontal tissues during endodontic treatment. Sodium hypoclorite (NaOCl) is one of the most widely recommended and used endodontic irrigants but it is highly toxic to periapical tissues.Objectives:To analyze the literature on the chemotherapeutic agent and plant extracts studied as root canal irrigants. In particularly, the study is focused on their effect on Enterococcus faecalis.Method:Literature search was performed electronically in PubMed (PubMed Central, MEDLINE) for articles published in English from 1982 to April 2015. The searched keywords were “endodontic irrigants” and “Enterococcus faecalis” and “essential oil” and “plant extracts”.Results:Many of the studied chemotherapeutic agents and plant extracts have shown promising results in vitro.Conclusion:Some of the considered phytotherapic substances, could be a potential alternative to NaOCl for the biomechanical treatment of the endodontic space.

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Fluoride-based mouthwashes and gels are preventive measures in countering demineralization and caries but, modifying environmental acidity, can reduce the wet corrosion resistance of orthodontic alloys. To evaluate chemical stability, in vitro experiments were conducted on stainless steel and nickel–titanium wires, weighed before and after immersion in household fluorinated mouthwashes and gels, measuring weight variations and elution of metal ions from acid corrosion phenomena. Elution samples were analyzed by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry, detecting residual ion concentration, while surface changes were analyzed under scanning electron microscopy. Results showed stainless steel wires do not undergo significant erosion when exposed to most fluorinated mouthwashes but, at prolonged exposure, alloys elute gradually greater amounts of metals and Ni–Ti wires become more sensitive to some mouthwashes. Ions’ elution varies considerably, especially for Ni–Ti wires, if exposed to household fluorinated gels, for which significant negative values were obtained. Changes, affecting wires’ outer layer, negatively act on shiny appearance and luster, reducing corrosion resistance. Although examined orthodontic wires showed good chemical stability and low toxicity, surface corrosion from exposure to fluorinated agents was observed. Home use must be accompanied by clinician prescription and, for household dental gels, must follow manufacturers’ recommendations, ensuring prophylactic action without damaging alloys surfaces.

Fluoride is recommended for its cariostatic effect, but excessive fluoride intake may have health risks. Increased prevalence of dental fluorosis in areas with low fluoride content in drinking water has been attributed to the inappropriate excessive intake of fluoride supplements (tablets and drops) and toothpaste ingestion. The aim of the present study was to estimate the fluoride intake and the risk of fluorosis in children (6 months–6 years) in the Castelli Romani area (province of Rome, Italy), which is volcanic, therefore with a higher concentration of fluorine. Measurements of the fluoride content in drinking water, mineral waters, vegetables and commercial toothpaste for children were performed. The fluoride concentrations of all samples were determined using a Fluoride Ion Selective Electrode (GLP 22, Crison, Esp). Data were analyzed by descriptive statistics. Differences between samples were determined by Student’s t-test. The fluoride content in tap water samples collected from public sources averaged from 0.35 to 1.11 ppm. The Pavona area showed the highest content of fluoride with respect to the others (p ≤ 0.05). The fluoride content in mineral water samples averaged from 0.07 to 1.50 ppm. The fluoride content of some vegetables showed increased mean values when compared to control vegetables (p ≤ 0.05). Within the limitations of the present study, considerations should be made when prescribing fluoride toothpaste for infants (6 months–4 years) in the areas with high fluoride content, because involuntary ingestion is consistent.