A comparative evaluation of different irrigation activation systems on smear layer removal from root canal: An in-vitro scanning electron microscope study.
OBJECTIVE
The aim of the following study is to compare the evaluation of different irrigation activation system-F-File, CanalBrush (CB) and EndoActivator (EA) in removing smear layer from root canal.


METHODS
Root canals of eighty single rooted decoronated premolar teeth were instrumented using crown-down technique and then equally divided into four groups on basis of irrigation activation methods used: Without irrigation - control group, irrigation with F-File, CB, EA into Group I, II, III respectively. Samples were then longitudinally sectioned and examined under scanning electron microscope by three qualified observers using score from 1 to 4. Data was analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS), version 15.0 (SPSS Inc., Chicago IL) at significance level of P ≤ 0.05.


RESULTS
Minimum mean score was observed in Group II at coronal, apical locations. Group III had minimum score at middle third. Groups difference in score were found to be significant statistically for all three locations as well as for overall assessment (P < 0.001).


CONCLUSIONS
CB remove smear layer more efficiently from the root canal than F-File and EA in coronal and apical region.
Department of Conservative Dentistry and Endodontics, Chandra Dental College and Hospital, Barabanki, Uttar Pradesh, India.
Nishi
N
Singh
Department of Conservative Dentistry and Endodontics, King George's Medical University, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India.
Anil
A
Chandra
Department of Conservative Dentistry and Endodontics, King George's Medical University, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India.
Aseem P
AP
Tikku
Department of Conservative Dentistry and Endodontics, King George's Medical University, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India.
Promila
P
Verma
Biomechanical preparation; irrigation activation; root canal; scanning electron microscope; smear layer