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Updated: Jun 17, 2026

Scanning Electron Microscopic Evaluation of Surface Defects of Remover Retreatment File After Single and Multiple Uses
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The smear layer in endodontics - a review.

D R Violich1, N P Chandler

  • 1Private Endodontic Practice, Tauranga, New Zealand.

International Endodontic Journal
|December 17, 2009
PubMed
Summary

Smear layer removal in root canals may improve disinfection. Current methods are not fully effective, but alternating ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid and sodium hypochlorite shows promise for endodontic treatment.

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International endodontic journal·2012

Area of Science:

  • Dentistry
  • Endodontics
  • Biomaterials

Background:

  • Root canal instrumentation creates a smear layer, a complex organic and inorganic debris film.
  • This smear layer can impede intracanal medicament penetration and affect filling material adaptation.
  • The smear layer may harbor bacteria and their by-products, impacting endodontic outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To provide a comprehensive overview of the endodontic smear layer.
  • To discuss the relevance of smear layer removal in root canal treatment.
  • To evaluate current and potential methods for smear layer management.

Main Methods:

  • Literature search of PubMed and endodontic texts.
  • Systematic review of articles on smear layer, dentine, and root canals.
  • Analysis of historical and contemporary research on smear layer removal techniques.

Main Results:

  • Smear layer removal is suggested to enhance root canal disinfection.
  • Current removal techniques (chemical, ultrasonic, laser) have limitations in effectiveness and universal acceptance.
  • Alternate use of ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid and sodium hypochlorite is a potential method of choice.

Conclusions:

  • Further research is needed to determine the definitive role of smear layer removal in root canal treatment success.
  • Optimal methods for complete smear layer removal throughout the canal length require further investigation.
  • The conflict regarding pre-filling smear layer removal necessitates continued study.

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