Comparative Evaluation of the Effect of Two Different Formulations of Ethylenediaminetetraacetic Acid on Microhardness of Bulk-fill Composites: An In Vitro Study

exhibits enhanced bactericidal activity due to reduced surface tension, thereby improving clinical performance. 8he composition and qualities of restorative materials have evolved, but despite this, the restorations are still vulnerable to a variety of factors that can alter their physical and mechanical features, such as color and microhardness per se. 9 A number of studies have been carried out to investigate the impact of tea, saliva, beverages, irrigating solutions, mouthwashes, coffee, and other factors on the microhardness of composite resins. [10][11]1][12][13][14][15][16][17][18] Several IntroductIonEndodontic therapy preserves dental health by maintaining root canal asepsis or treating infections to prevent apical periodontitis.However, conditions such as caries, trauma, or root resorption often cause structural damage, requiring endodontic intervention. 1or such compromised teeth, considering preendodontic restoration becomes imperative before initiating endodontic therapy, which creates a protective barrier against bacteria seeping into the cavity. 2Furthermore, it aids in preventing fractures of the weakened tooth structure, maintaining consistent reference points, and enhancing esthetics during endodontic treatment. 3or preendodontic restoration, various materials were used. 1,4Currently, newer materials, such as bulk-fill resin composite (BRC), can be placed in increments with a thickness ranging from 4 to 10 mm, which speeds up the placement of posterior restorations, reduces procedural time and technique sensitivity, while its high filling load enhances wear and fracture resistance. 5,6chieving successful root canal therapy relies heavily on thoroughly cleaning the root canal system and eliminating the smear layer. 7Ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) at 17% concentration, the pioneering chelator in dentistry, effectively dissolves the smear layer, softens dentin in root canals, and enhances dentin permeability.Ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid with cetrimide (EDTAC), a combination of EDTA and cetrimide, 1-