Comparative evaluation of smear layer removal and dentin wettability using 1% phytic acid with and without 0.2% chitosan nanoparticles: An in vitro study

Abstract Introduction: The success of endodontic treatment depends on the complete removal of the smear layer from the root canal and the enhanced wettability of the irrigants employed during treatment. However, none of the irrigants efficiently accomplish this; thus, the purpose of this investigation was to evaluate the elimination of the smear layer and wettability of root dentin using the combination of 0.2% Chitosan nanoparticles(CSN) with 1% phytic acid (PA). Materials and Methods: About 100 extracted single-rooted human premolar teeth were decoronated and standardized to 13 mm root length. Fifty specimens were tested for smear layer removal and another half for wettability ( n = 50) after final irrigation in five groups: Group 1 – normal saline (control), Group 2 – 17% ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA), Group 3 – 17% EDTA with 0.2% CSN, Group 4 – 1% PA, and Group 5 – 1% PA with 0.2% CSN. After root canal instrumentation and final irrigation, the specimens were observed under scanning electron microscope for the smear layer. Wettability was determined using dentin blocks obtained ( n = 50) by resecting the apical third of each specimen, treated with irrigants in aforementioned groups, and the contact angle was measured using a goniometer. Statistical analysis was done using one-way analysis of variance and post hoc Tukey tests ( P < 0.05). Results: A combination of 1% PA with 0.2% CSN showed higher smear layer removal and increased wettability. Conclusions: The incorporation of 0.2% CSN to 1% PA was effective in removing the smear layer and increased the dentinal wettability.