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Comparison among four commonly used demineralizing agents for root conditioning: a scanning electron microscopy
Nathalia Godoy do Amaral1, Maria Lúcia Rubo de Rezende, Fabiana Hirata
1Department of Prosthodontics, Bauru School of Dentistry, University of São Paulo, Bauru, SP, Brazil.
Journal of Applied Oral Science : Revista FOB
|October 12, 2011
Summary
Citric acid (CA) and tetracycline-HCl (TC-HCl) were most effective in removing smear layer and opening dentin tubules on periodontally affected root surfaces. This finding aids in selecting agents for root conditioning to improve connective tissue reattachment.
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials Science
- Dental Research
- Periodontology
Background:
- Periodontal disease exposes dental roots, causing changes that hinder connective tissue reattachment.
- Demineralizing agents are adjuncts in periodontal therapy to improve root surface biocompatibility.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the efficacy of four demineralizing agents in removing smear layer and opening dentin tubules.
- To evaluate citric acid (CA), tetracycline-HCl (TC-HCl), EDTA, and phosphoric acid (PA) for root conditioning.
Main Methods:
- Fifty periodontally diseased human root fragments were treated with CA, TC-HCl, EDTA, PA, or saline (CONTROL).
- Treatment duration was 3 minutes for all agents.
- Scanning electron microscopy assessed smear layer presence and dentin tubule exposure.
Main Results:
- Citric acid (CA) completely removed smear layer; TC-HCl removed 66.7%, EDTA 20%, PA and CONTROL 0%.
- CA and TC-HCl significantly increased exposed dentin tubule area compared to EDTA and CONTROL.
- Mean tubule opening percentages: CA (0.12%), TC-HCl (0.08%), PA (0.03%), EDTA (0.01%), CONTROL (0%).
Conclusions:
- Agent efficacy for smear layer removal and tubule widening decreased in the order: CA > TC-HCl > PA > EDTA.
- These findings provide valuable data for selecting root conditioning agents in periodontal treatment.
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