Evaluation of Antimicrobial effect of Triphala versus conventional root canal irrigants in primary teeth-An In vivo study

Abstract

Introduction: The success of pulpectomy is based on complete eradication of microbes from the root canals of primary teeth. This is brought about by the combined mechanical preparation and chemical disinfection of the root canal system. Currently, herbal agents are used as irrigants because of their low cytotoxicity. In vitro studies have been done using triphala as a root canal irrigant in primary teeth due to its ant inflammatory and antibacterial activity. In vivo studies have not been documented in the literature in the primary teeth. Aim: The aim of this study is to compare the antimicrobial effectiveness of triphala as a root canal irrigant in primary teeth. Materials and Methods: This randomized controlled trial was performed in primary molars which were indicated for pulpectomy. Thirty primary molars were randomly allocated to on of the two groups by which the irrigation was done: Group A: Triphala; Group B: Sterile saline. Pre and post irrigation sample was collected by using sterile absorbent paper points in a sterile Eppendorf tube containing saline as a transport medium and culturing was done by using nutrient agar and incubated for 48 hours and the mean colony count of microbial flora was evaluated. Results: Triphala as a root canal irrigant was shown to have more antimicrobial effect in reducing the microbial flora compared to sterile saline. But, there was no statistical significant difference. Conclusion: Triphala can be used as a potent irrigating solution compared to saline and has been shown to have significant effect in reducing the microbial flora.