Clinical trials

Bacteria inside the root canal are a major cause of tooth infections. If they are not completely removed, the infection may continue even after root canal treatment. One bacterium, Enterococcus faecalis, is commonly found in persistent root canal infections. The goal of root canal treatment is to remove these bacteria and prevent the infection from returning. Along with cleaning the canal using dental instruments, dentists use disinfecting solutions (called irrigants) to kill remaining bacteria. The most commonly used irrigant is 3% sodium hypochlorite. Although it is effective at killing bacteria, it can irritate tissues, cause allergic reactions, has an unpleasant smell and taste, and may weaken the tooth. Because of these disadvantages, researchers are exploring safer natural alternatives. Amla (Emblica officinalis) is a medicinal plant known for its antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and pain-relieving properties. This study aims to compare amla with 3% sodium hypochlorite to determine how well each reduces Enterococcus faecalis during root canal treatment and whether they produce similar clinical outcomes. The study will include 66 patients aged 14-50 years who require root canal treatment for an infected single-rooted front tooth. Participants will be randomly assigned to one of two groups: one will receive 3% sodium hypochlorite, and the other will receive amla as the root canal irrigant. Bacterial samples will be collected before treatment, immediately after cleaning the canal, and one week later. The number of bacteria will be measured and compared between the two groups. The researchers will also assess pain, tenderness, and other signs of healing after treatment. The findings will help determine whether amla is a safe and effective natural alternative to the standard root canal irrigant.

Pulpotomy has emerged as a conservative treatment option for mature permanent teeth with irreversible pulpitis, aiming to preserve pulp vitality while avoiding the limitations of conventional root canal treatment. Mineral Trioxide Aggregate (MTA) is currently considered the gold standard pulpotomy medicament because of its favorable biological properties; however, its high cost, difficult handling characteristics, and prolonged setting time limit its widespread use. Salvadora persica (Miswak), a medicinal plant with documented antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, may provide a cost-effective biological alternative. This randomized controlled clinical trial aims to compare the clinical and radiographic outcomes of Salvadora persica extract mixed with zinc oxide powder versus MTA as pulpotomy agents in mature permanent posterior teeth diagnosed with irreversible pulpitis. A total of 78 patients aged 18-40 years will be randomly allocated into two equal treatment groups. Clinical outcomes, including pain, tenderness to percussion and palpation, swelling, sinus tract formation, and tooth mobility, will be evaluated alongside radiographic outcomes such as periapical/inter-radicular radiolucency and internal resorption. Participants will be followed for six months after treatment. The study seeks to determine whether Salvadora persica extract mixed with zinc oxide powder can provide outcomes comparable to MTA. If successful, this natural and economical material may offer an accessible alternative for vital pulp therapy, particularly in low-resource settings, promoting tooth preservation and reducing the need for more invasive endodontic procedures.

Postoperative sensitivity is a common complication following Class V composite restorations, particularly in non-carious cervical lesions (NCCLs). This randomized controlled trial aims to evaluate the effectiveness of dipotassium oxalate as a pre-treatment agent in reducing postoperative sensitivity. A total of 64 participants will be randomly assigned into two groups: an intervention group receiving dipotassium oxalate prior to adhesive application, and a control group receiving standard adhesive protocol without pretreatment. Sensitivity will be assessed using a Visual Analog Scale (VAS) in response to cold and air stimuli at baseline, 24 hours, 7 days, and 30 days. The study aims to determine whether dipotassium oxalate significantly reduces postoperative sensitivity and can be incorporated into routine restorative dental practice.