Comparative evaluation of removal of gutta-percha from root canals with laser using different solvents: An in vitro study

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Aim: The aim of this study is to evaluate the gutta-percha removal from root canals with diode laser using chloroform and Endosolv E solvents. Materials and Methods: Thirty freshly extracted permanent human maxillary central incisors with single and straight root canals were selected for the study. Teeth were biomechanically prepared and then obturated. Teeth were then stored in 100% humidity at 37°C for 7 days. Then teeth were randomly divided into three groups based on retreatment method used: Group 1-Only diode laser; Group 2-Diode laser along with chloroform as solvent; Group 3-Diode laser along with Endosolv E (Tetrachloroethylene) as solvent. After completion of retreatment, roots were sectioned longitudinally and viewed under stereomicroscope at 10x magnification. The area of the remaining filling material in each half was measured using Image tool for Windows v. 3.00 software. Data were analyzed by using analysis of variance test followed by post hoc test. Results: The results showed that all the laser groups left some filling material inside the root canal. However, the specimens retreated with diode laser along with chloroform (Group 2) left less filling material inside the root canals as compared to other groups. Conclusion: The present study revealed that the diode laser with solvents (Chloroform and Endosolv E) were significantly more effective than only diode laser group in removing gutta-percha during retreatment of the root canal system. Out of these, Group 2 (diode laser along with chloroform as solvent) was more effective than other groups.