Evaluation of Smear Layer Removal Using Different Irrigation Methods In Root Canals

This study evaluated different irrigation methods in smear layer removal from the root canal walls using maleic acid (MA). Maxillary anterior teeth (N=30, n=10 per group) were decoronated, canals were enlarged with Protaper (size F4) and allocated to three groups: EndoUltra: 2.5 ml of 7% MA was irrigated for 30 s, followed by EndoUltra activation for 30 s; EndoSafe: EndoSafe irrigation system was used for 1 minute using 5 ml of 7% MA; Side-vented needle: 30 gauge needle irrigation was performed for 1 min using 5 ml of 7% MA. After SEM analysis, the inter-examiner reliability was verified using Kendall's Co-efficient and data were analyzed using Pearson Chi-Square test. No statistical significant differences were found between the two examiners (p⟩0.05). In intra-group comparison, needle and EndoSafe irrigation demonstrated significantly better smear layer removal at middle third of the root canal system (p⟨0.05) when compared to apical third. In inter-group comparison, smear layer was minimally removed with needle irrigation. In the apical third, EndoUltra group removed smear layer more effectively. Endosafe needle irrigation in combination with 7% MA removed the smear layer in the root canal at best, while the EndoUltra performed the best at the apical third of the root.