Unlocking the Secrets of Sodium Hypochlorite's Efficacy in Endodontic Treatment.
Authors: R.G. Macedo, P.R. Wesselink, F. Zaccheo, D. Fanali, L.W.M. Van Der SluisObjective
To investigate how activation methods (ultrasound vs. laser), sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl) concentration, pH, and exposure time influence the reaction rate (RR) of NaOCl when interacting with dentinal walls.
: Standardized root canals in bovine incisors.
:
NaOCl concentrations: 2% vs. 10%.
pH levels: 5 (acidic) vs. 12 (alkaline).
Exposure times: 1 vs. 4 minutes.
:
Passive ultrasonic irrigation (PUI).
Laser-activated irrigation (LAI).
Control (no activation).
: 1-minute activation followed by 3-minute rest interval.
: Iodine/thiosulfate titration measured iodine concentration to calculate RR.
Key Results
:
Longer exposure (4 min) and higher NaOCl concentration (10%) increased RR.
Activation (especially LAI) enhanced RR more than passive irrigation.
: pH had no effect on RR for 2% NaOCl.
: Chlorine consumption rose during the 3-minute rest interval, particularly after LAI activation.
Conclusions
Activation methods (notably laser) strongly modulate NaOCl’s reaction rate, improving its efficacy. Extended exposure and higher concentrations further boost RR, while pH does not influence outcomes for 2% NaOCl. These findings highlight the importance of activation in optimizing irrigant activity during endodontic treatment.