Effect of Intracanal Medicaments (Triple Antibiotic Paste, Modified Triple Antibiotic Paste, & Odontopaste) On Microhardness of Root Dentin: An In Vitro Study

AbstractAim: This study aimed to evaluate and compare the impact of three intracanal medicaments triple antibiotic paste (TAP), modified triple antibiotic paste (MTAP), and odontopaste on the microhardness of root dentin.Materials and Methods: A total of 76 extracted mandibular bicuspids with a single root and single canal were prepared using ProTaper Next rotary files. The samples were divided into four groups: three experimental groups (n = 19 each) and one untreated control group (n = 19). The experimental groups received TAP, MTAP, and odontopaste within the root canals. After 21 days, the medicaments were removed using an Endo Activator. The mean Knoop hardness values were then measured and compared with those of the control group. Statistical analysis was performed using the Kolmogorov-Smirnov test, one-way ANOVA, and Student's t-test.Results: All experimental groups, except the odontopaste group, showed a significant reduction (p < 0.05) in root dentin microhardness compared to the control group. The odontopaste group demonstrated the least reduction, which was not statistically significant (p > 0.05).Conclusion: Odontopaste appears to be more favorable as it has minimal impact on the microhardness of root dentin when compared to TAP and MTAP.Clinical Significance: Successful endodontic treatment depends on effective elimination of bacterial infection from the root canal while preserving the structural integrity of dentin. Odontopaste shows potential in achieving both objectives; however, further in vivo studies are necessary to validate these findings.