Comparative evaluation between boric acid and sodium hypochlorite in pulp dissolving ability: An in vitro study

Thorough elimination of pulp tissue remnants and significant reduction of microbial pathogens within the root canal system are essential for the success of endodontic treatment. Therefore, it is of interest to compare and assess the effectiveness of 10% boric acid, 5% boric acid and 5.25% NaOCl in dissolving pulp tissue. Forty pulp tissue samples obtained during routine endodontic procedures were standardized to 25 mg each, evenly distributed into four groups (n=10 per group). The initial weight of the samples was recorded using an analytical balance and each sample was then immersed in 5 ml of the respective solution for 30 minutes at room temperature. After immersion, the samples were re-weighed and the weight loss was recorded and analyzed.