An invitro comparison of antimicrobial efficacy of sodium hypochlorite gel with twin kleen irrigating solution against enterococcus feacalis

The Enterococcus faecalis (E. faecalis) is a normal inhabitant of the oral cavity and is the most commonly identified species in post treatment asymptomatic persistent endodontic diseases (both intra-radicular and extra- radicular). Its prevalence ranges from 24% to 77%. To completely eliminate microorganisms from the root canal system, combination of instrumentation and irrigation with antibacterial solutions is necessary. Hence, the purpose of this study was to evaluate and compare the antibacterial efficacy of sodium hypochlorite gel with twin kleen irrigating solution against E. faecalis.40 non-carious, single-rooted teeth with straight canals were selected and instrumented till F3 (30.06) ProTaper Universal (Dentsply Maillefer, Ballaigues, Switzerland). E faecalis was prepared and incubated in teeth and were randomly divided into four groups of 10 each, Group A – 5.25% NaOCl gel, Group B – Twin Kleen Irrigating solution, Group C – 3% NaOCl solution and Group D – Saline. Sterile paper points were used to collect the samples after irrigation and then they were transferred to blood agar culture plates to check the presence of E. faecalis. Significant statistical difference was seen between the four groups. The effect of 5.25% NaOCl gel was superior as compared to Twin Kleen irrigating solution.Under the limitations of this study, 5.25% NaOCl gel was effective in reducing E. faecalis count followed by Twin kleen irrigating solutions.