In vivo evaluation of chlorhexidine gluconate solution and sodium hypochlorite solution as root canal irrigants

A comparison was made of the effectiveness of irrigation with 0.2% chlorhexidine gluconate solution and 2.5% sodium hypochlorite solution during the endodontic treatment of 60 asymptomatic, uniradicular teeth with necrotic pulps. The effects of the two irrigants were monitored through aerobic and anaerobic bacteriologic cultures, which were obtained at the beginning and end of each appointment. As an endodontic irrigant, sodium hypochlorite solution (2.5%) was significantly more effective as an antimicrobial agent than chlorhexidine gluconate solution (0.2%).