Efficacy of EDTA-T gel for smear layer removal at root surfaces.
OBJECTIVE
The purpose of this in vitro study was to investigate the efficacy of EDTA gel preparation, associated with texapon detergent (EDTA-T), for removing the smear layer at human root surfaces.


METHODS
An experimental smear layer was produced by scaling using periodontal curettes, and the root surfaces were etched with the following concentrations of EDTA-T: 5%, 10%, 15%, 20%, 24%, and negative control (saline solution) for 1, 2, or 3 minutes using both passive and active methods. The surfaces were evaluated by scanning electron microscopy, and photomicrographs were evaluated in relation to smear removal.


RESULTS
All EDTA-T groups were more effective than the control group (P < .0001). EDTA-T at 15% was more effective when applied by the passive method, although this difference was not observed for the active method. The active method was statistically better than the passive method (P < .0001).


CONCLUSIONS
The etching of the root surface with EDTA-T gel by active application, independently of the other factors evaluated, was effective for smear layer removal.
Department of Periodontology, Dental School of Araraquara, State University of São Paulo (UNESP), Araraquara, SP, Brazil.
Luiz Henrique
LH
Carvalho Batista
José Eduardo
JE
Cezar Sampaio
Gibson Luiz
GL
Pilatti
Jamil Awad
JA
Shibli
D000134:Acid Etching, Dental / Q000379:methods; D002614:Chelating Agents / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D003804:Dentin / Q000187:drug effects*; D004492:Edetic Acid / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D005782:Gels; D006801:Humans; D008855:Microscopy, Electron, Scanning; D018915:Root Canal Preparation / Q000379:methods*; D016369:Smear Layer; D013997:Time Factors; D014092:Tooth Root / Q000187:drug effects
D002614:Chelating Agents; D005782:Gels; D004492:Edetic Acid