Abstract
OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the differential effects of various chelating agents on the microhardness of root canal dentin in an in vitro setting. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This study utilized 36 single-rooted human premolars, divided into three groups (n = 12 each), and treated with sodium hypochlorite followed by one of three chelating agents: chitosan, ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) with carbamide peroxide, and EDTA alone (Edita liquid). Vickers microhardness testing was conducted pre- and post-treatment to assess changes in dentin hardness. RESULTS: All groups exhibited a decrease in microhardness, with the EDTA and carbamide peroxide combination showing the most substantial reduction. The mean microhardness decreased significantly from 44.59 HV to 39.00 HV in this group (P < 0.001), while the chitosan group showed the least reduction, from 42.33 HV to 40.94 HV (P = 0.001). CONCLUSION: Chelating agents significantly affect dentin microhardness; thus, their selection should consider both cleaning efficacy and potential impacts on tooth structure.