An in vitro evaluation of smear layer removal with non-activated self adjusting file, xp-endo finisher and rotary canal brush: A scanning electron microscopic study

Abstract

Background: Endodontic success involves removal of necrotic vital tissue and microorganisms from the root canal. Irrigation is an essential part of canal debridement, because it allows cleaning beyond what might be achieved by instrumentation alone. Aim: The aim of this in vitro study is to compare the smear layer removal efficacy of different final irrigation agitation devices. Materials and Methods: A total of 60 extracted single-rooted human premolar tooth were taken and decoronated. All the specimens were cleaned and shaped using ProTaper universal rotary files system and intermittent irrigation was done using 2 ml of 3% NaOCl and randomly divided into four groups, based on irrigant agitation device. Group 1 = conventional needle, Group 2 = Rotary canal brush, Group 3 = Non-activated Self adjusting file, and Group 4 = Xp-endo finisher. Final irrigant used is 17% Ethylene Diamine Tetra Acetic acid (EDTA) smear clear. All the specimens were finally flushed with distilled water and dried with paper points, then they were split longitudinally into halves and examined under scanning electron microscope. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 23, P value of <0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: Non-activated self adjusting file (SAF) and Xp-endo finisher showed significantly cleaner walls with removal of smear layer followed by canal brush. There was no significant statistical difference (P < 0.05) between non-activated SAF and Xp-endo finisher. Conclusion: Xp-endo finisher shows superior results compared with other agitation methods.