Comparative evaluation of antimicrobial efficacy of Moringa oleifera extract, sodium hypochlorite, and their combination with diode laser against Enterococcus faecalis: An in vitro study

Aim: To evaluate and compare the antimicrobial efficacy of Moringa oleifera extract, sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl), and their combination with diode laser on Enterococcus faecalis . Methods: An in vitro study used 40 single-rooted teeth, prepared to 15 mm with ProTaper Gold files. After inoculation with E. faecalis , the samples were divided into four groups: Group 1 (75% M. oleifera ), Group 2 (3% NaOCl), Group 3 (laser-activated M. oleifera ), and Group 4 (laser-activated NaOCl). Pre- and postirrigation colony-forming units (CFUs) were analyzed, and statistical differences were evaluated using one-way ANOVA. Results: All groups showed significant CFU reductions ( P < 0.001). Groups 3 and 4 achieved the highest reductions, with no significant difference between them. Group 1 outperformed Group 2 but was less effective than laser-activated groups. Conclusion: Diode laser activation significantly enhanced the antimicrobial efficacy of both M. oleifera extract and NaOCl. These findings support M. oleifera as a potential natural alternative in endodontic disinfection.