A comparative study of effects of Triphala and Tetracycline gel on root conditioning: A scanning electron microscopic study

Background: Remnants of dental calculus, contaminated cementum, and subgingival plaque act  as  a  physical  barrier  between  periodontal  tissues  and  root  surfaces,  which  inhibits  the formation of new attachment. Treatment of denuded root surface using various chemicals and antimicrobial agents with scaling and root planing helps in active periodontal regeneration. Aim: The aim of this study was to evaluate and compare the demineralizing effects of Triphala and 1% Tetracycline HCl gel on root conditioning using a Scanning Electron Microscope. Settings and  design:  A  total  of  50  hemi-sectioned  root  samples  were  obtained  from  25 extracted,  and  root  planed  samples.  These  were  divided  into  two  groups,  Group  1:  1% Tetracycline HCl gel and Group 2: Triphala. Materials and method: The two root conditioning agents were applied with cotton pellets on the sectioned roots. The samples were then examined under the scanning electron microscope. Statistical analysis used: Data obtained was compiled on a MS Office Excel Sheet. Inter group comparison was done using Mann Whitney U test. Comparison of frequencies of categories of variables with groups was done using Chi Square Test. Results: The root conditioning agents used in this study were found to be equally effective in removing the smear layer.  &nbsp