Discover the groundbreaking comparison between SWEEPS and PIPS in root canal disinfection and their efficacy in eliminating harmful bacteria.
Authors: Xiao-Na Wang, Jing ShiObjective
To compare the efficacy of shock wave-enhanced emission photoacoustic streaming (SWEEPS) and photon-induced photoacoustic streaming (PIPS) modes in Er:YAG lasers for eliminating Enterococcus faecalis biofilms from narrow root canals.
Materials and Methods
Samples: 130 distal/palatal roots of extracted human molars.
Preparation: Smear layer removed via conventional preparation; samples sterilized and infected with E. faecalis for 4 weeks.
Groups:
SWEEPS + 3% sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl)
PIPS + 3% NaOCl
3% NaOCl alone (control).
Analysis:
Bacterial clearance assessed via colony-forming unit (CFU) counts.
Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) evaluated residual bacteria.
Key Results
CFU counts: SWEEPS achieved significantly lower bacterial counts than PIPS and the control group (P < 0.05).
SEM imaging: SWEEPS-treated canals showed minimal bacterial remnants, outperforming PIPS and NaOCl alone.
Efficacy hierarchy: SWEEPS > PIPS > NaOCl alone, aligning with studies highlighting SWEEPS’ enhanced irrigant penetration.
Conclusion
SWEEPS demonstrated superior biofilm eradication compared to PIPS, likely due to its ability to generate stronger shockwaves that enhance irrigant distribution in narrow canals. These findings support SWEEPS as a promising advancement in endodontic disinfection protocols, particularly for anatomically complex root canals.