Abstract
AIM: This in vitro study compared the antimicrobial efficacy of 5.25% sodium hypochlorite, 10% citric acid, and 3% hydrogen peroxide against Enterococcus faecalis (E. faecalis), using normal saline as a control. METHOD: E. faecalis isolates were exposed to different irrigants, with bacterial colony counts measured at various intervals using the spread plate method. RESULTS: Sodium hypochlorite and citric acid effectively inhibited E. faecalis, while hydrogen peroxide was less effective. Sodium hypochlorite dissolved tissues and acted germicidally; citric acid disrupted bacterial structures through low pH. Hydrogen peroxide's effect was due to free radical formation and oxygen release. CONCLUSION: Both 5.25% sodium hypochlorite and 10% citric acid showed equal efficacy against E. faecalis, while hydrogen peroxide was less effective. Further research should explore clinical applications and polymicrobial biofilms.