Comparative Evaluation of Contact Angle in Biosynthesised and Chemically Synthesised Silver Nanoparticle-based Root Canal Irrigants: An In-vitro Study

Abstract

Introduction: Irrigating solutions are vital in endodontics, serving to meticulously disinfect root canals, enzymatically dissolve pulpal remnants, and facilitate thorough flushing to eradicate microorganisms. This intricate process ensures optimal microbial control, tissue dissolution, and debris removal, contributing to enhanced endodontic outcomes and overall oral health in clinical practice. Aim: To evaluate the contact angle of Trisodium Citrate (TSC) Silver Nanoparticles (AgNP) and Biosynthesised AgNPs when used in root canal irrigation. Materials and Methods: This in-vitro study was conducted at White Lab, Department of Conservative Dentistry and Endodontics, Saveetha Dental College Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences Saveetha University, Chennai, Tamilnadu, India, from January 2023 to August 2023. A total of 40 single-rooted dentine samples extracted from human teeth were utilised. Ethical clearance was duly obtained. The samples were categorised into four groups (n=10 each). The groups underwent distinct irrigation processes, including Biosynthesised AgNPs from Azadirachta Indica (Group-1), Chemically synthesised AgNPs from Trisodium citrate (Group-2), 5.25% Sodium Hypochlorite (Group-3), and Distilled Water (DW) as the control (Group-4). The contact angle of the tested irrigants was thoroughly evaluated in all the samples using an Ossila goniometer. The data were analysed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) 21.0. Statistical tests used were Analysis of Variance (ANOVA). A p-value of <0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: Group-1 and Group-2 showed significantly low contact angles (p=0.002) compared to the other irrigants like 5.25% Sodium Hypochlorite (NaOCl) and water used as control. There was no statistically significant difference among the tested irrigants, with TSC AgNPs and A. Indica AgNPs showing the best results followed by NaOCl and distilled water. Conclusion: The AgNPs in prepared root canals can serve as a good alternative as an irrigating solution. Biosynthesised AgNPs are equivalent to Trisodium citrate AgNPs in regard to wettability.