Effect of QMix 2 in 1, BioPure MTAD and 17% Ethylenediaminetetraacetic Acid on Microhardness of Root Canal Dentin

Aim: To compare the effect of QMix, a mixture of tetracycline, citric acid, and detergent (MTAD), and ethylenediaminetetracetic acid (EDTA) on the microhardness of the root canal dentin. Materials and methods: A total of 30 single-rooted teeth were decoronated at 15 mm from the root apex. Root canal instrumentation using step back technique was done and the specimens were split into two halves using diamond disc. These were embedded in acrylic blocks and sent for testing by Vickers hardness test. The other half of the specimens was divided into four groups. Control group: In this, normal saline was used. Group I: MTAD was used. Group II: 17% EDTA was used. Group IV: QMix 2 in 1 (DENTSPLY) was used. The specimens were immersed in test irrigant for 5 minutes in closed glass plates. The tested specimens were sent for Vickers hardness test under 100 gm load for 15 seconds. The post Vickers hardness number readings were recorded and sent for statistical analysis. Results: Data were analyzed using one-way analysis of variance and least significant difference post hoc test was applied for pairwise comparison. QMix showed significantly less reduction in microhardness than EDTA and QMix: Normal saline > QMix>EDTA>MTAD. Conclusion: QMix as a root canal irrigant is efficient as it caused least reduction of microhardness of dentin. It has antibacterial properties and is also efficient for smear layer removal.