Antimicrobial Effectiveness of Endodontic Irrigants Against E. Faecalis: An In vitro Study

This in vitro study compared the antimicrobial efficacy of 5.25% sodium hypochlorite, 10% citric acid, and 3% hydrogen peroxide against Enterococcus faecalis (E. faecalis), using normal saline as a control. E. faecalis isolates were exposed to different irrigants, with bacterial colony counts measured at various intervals using the spread plate method. Sodium hypochlorite and citric acid effectively inhibited E. faecalis, while hydrogen peroxide was less effective. Sodium hypochlorite dissolved tissues and acted germicidally; citric acid disrupted bacterial structures through low pH. Hydrogen peroxide's effect was due to free radical formation and oxygen release. Both 5.25% sodium hypochlorite and 10% citric acid showed equal efficacy against E. faecalis, while hydrogen peroxide was less effective. Further research should explore clinical applications and polymicrobial biofilms.