Comparative evaluation between boric acid and sodium hypochlorite in pulp dissolving ability: An in vitro study

Area of Science:

• Endodontic treatment
• Biomaterials science

Background:

• Complete removal of pulp tissue and microbial reduction are crucial for endodontic success.
• Investigating effective irrigants is vital for improving treatment outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the pulp tissue dissolving efficacy of 10% boric acid, 5% boric acid, and 5.25% sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl).

Main Methods:

• Standardized pulp tissue samples (25 mg) were immersed in 5 ml of each solution (10% boric acid, 5% boric acid, 5.25% NaOCl) for 30 minutes.
• Weight loss of the samples was measured to quantify tissue dissolution.
• Samples were evenly distributed into four groups (n=10 per group).

Main Results:

• Sodium hypochlorite (5.25%) exhibited the highest percentage of weight loss, indicating superior pulp tissue dissolution.
• Both 10% and 5% boric acid solutions showed less efficacy in dissolving pulp tissue compared to NaOCl.
• Further analysis of weight loss data revealed significant differences in dissolution capabilities among the tested solutions.

Conclusions:

• 5.25% sodium hypochlorite is more effective in dissolving pulp tissue than 5% or 10% boric acid solutions.
• Boric acid solutions may have limited application in pulp tissue dissolution during endodontic procedures.
• Sodium hypochlorite remains a highly effective irrigant for pulp tissue removal in root canal therapy.