Surface Topographic Analysis of Gutta-percha Using Novel Disinfecting Materials by Atomic Force Microscopy: An In Vitro Study

Aim:The present in vitro study was undertaken to assess the surface topographic changes of Gutta-percha (GP) cones after disinfection with a new disin fecting material and to compare the same with sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl) and chitosan nanoparticles using an atomic force microscope (AFM).Materials and methods: Forty gutta-percha cones (ISO Size 30, 6% taper, DIADENT) were taken and randomly divided into four groups: Group A -control (untreated gutta-percha cones, n = 10), group B -5.25% NaOCl (n = 10), group C -Curcumin Nano-dispersion (n = 10), and group D -Chitosan Nano-dispersion (n = 10) respectively.After being treated with the respective disinfection materials for 1 minute, the surface topography of the gutta-percha cones was assessed using atomic force microscopy.Results: Among the experimental groups, the root mean square (RMS) values and surface roughness (Ra) values were highest for sodium hypochlorite and least for the chitosan group.For the curcumin nanoparticle group, the values were between these two groups.Conclusion: Within the scope of this in vitro study, it is evident that the groups treated with chitosan and curcumin nanoparticles experienced less surface deterioration than those treated with NaOCl.Consequently, these nanoparticles could be considered alternative disinfectants for gutta-percha cones.Clinical significance: The success of root canal treatment depends on the complete removal of microorganisms from the root canals.To maintain aseptic conditions, gutta-percha disinfection is required.Chitosan nanoparticles and curcumin nano-dispersion can be a promising disinfecting agent for gutta-percha cones with less surface topographic changes.