Vol. 2, Issue 2, Part A (2016)

Abstract: The aim of the study is to evaluate the effect of EDTA, sodium hypochlorite and chlorhexidine on dentin microhardness at the furcation area of mandibular molars. 40 extracted human permanent mandibular molars were selected for study. Access opening and instrumentation done till No.F2 hand protaper file. Saline is used as irrigation during cleaning & shaping. Teeth were randomly divided to 4 groups (n=10) according to the irrigating techniques as Group 1: Saline, Group 2: ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA), Group 3: sodium hypochlorite, Group 4: chlorhexidine. Irrigating solution were activated in the canals with manual activation technique. Then teeth were sectioned longitudinally approximately 5 mm below cementoenamel junction and embedded in acrylic resin block. Teeth were analysed for microhardness at furcation area with Knoop indenter. The result is the average dentin microhardness at furcation area is significantly higher in teeth irrigated with Chlorhexidine compared to EDTA, and sodium hypochlorite.