Comparative evaluation of Sapindus Mukorossi extract with 17% EDTA on smear layer removal in various parts of the tooth root.

OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to compare the effectiveness of an experimental root canal irrigant and 17% Ethylene-di-amine tetra acetic acid for removal of the smear layer in the coronal, middle and apical portions of the root canal. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Ninety human single rooted maxillary and mandibular teeth were selected for this study. The teeth were randomly divided into two experimental groups and one control group as follows: Group A (Ethanolic extract of Sapindus Mukorossi), Group B (17% EDTA), and Group C (Distilled water). The root canals of all three groups were prepared with stainless steel K-files by means of the standard step-back technique and irrigated with 5.25% sodium hypo chloride. The teeth were decoronated, following the irrigation and divided longitudinally into two-halves and visualized using scanning electron microscope (SEM) for the amount of smear layer present utilizing the three-point score system. The observations were noted both before and after the treatment. Nonparametric tests were applied for the comparison and p-value ⩽ 0.05 was considered as statistically significant. RESULTS: It was evident from that smear layer was completely removed in coronal portion of 27 out of 30 teeth in-group A. For middle and apical areas of group A, 24 and 19 teeth showed complete smear layer removal. In-group B it was found that there were 24, 21, and 3 teeth at coronal, middle and apical, areas respectively where smear layer were completely absent. Intra group comparison showed a significant difference (p = 0.002) in smear layer removal was found for group A at coronal, middle and apical thirds. Similarly, a significant difference (p = 0.001) was also found for group B; however heavy smear layer was found among the three parts of the canal for group C. CONCLUSIONS: Ethanolic extract of Sapindus Mukorossi have higher effectiveness in removing the smear layer from the root canal in comparison to 17% EDTA.

[Root canals dentinal wall structure after photodynamic exposure]. / Izuchenie struktury stenki kornevykh kanalov zubov posle fotodinamicheskogo vozdeistviia.

The aim of the study was to assess root canal dentinal walls structure after photodynamic exposure with the use of 0.5% photoditazine. A root canal dentin of 46 single root intact teeth removed for orthodontic indications was examined by scanning electron microscope JEOL JSM-6510 (Japan). Microphotographs of the root canal wall were obtained in the orifice, central and apical parts under×2000 magnification. It was found that photoactivation of 0.5% gel photoditazine by a light source, laser or diode, with a wavelength of 635-660 nm and a power of 150-200 mW is an effective technique for removing the smear layer of the root canal wall, which facilitates the maximum opening of the dentinal tubules to a depth of 2-3 µm. The best result (the maximum number of open dentinal tubules, the absence of a smear layer) is observed with 3 min photoditazine exposure and 2 min of laser exposure. The method can be proposed as an alternative supplement to the conventional root canals irrigation.

Natural products in endodontics.

Herbal remedies are used throughout the world, either in earlier or in recent times. The number of studies on this alternative therapeutic system increased in the last decades. In this paper, the relevant literature on the use of natural products in root canal therapy is revised from a MEDLINE database search. The uses of medicinal plants in endodontics include cleaning and disinfection of root canals, intracanal medicaments between appointments, sealer cements, and for removal of obturation material. Other studies showed the effect of natural products in pulpal and dentin repair. Their use is anecdotal, and their effectiveness showed to be variable and is always compared to the chemical standards currently being used. Alkaloids, coumarins, saponins, and flavonoids are aromatic substances that are produced by plants and evaluated for their therapeutic potential. Further investigation into benefits of natural products is warranted.

A comparative scanning electron microscopy evaluation of smear layer removal with chitosan and MTAD.

The aim of the present study was to compare the efficacy of chitosan and MTAD for the smear layer removal from the root canal through a scanning electron microscope (SEM). Thirty teeth were randomly divided into three groups according to the final irrigants: 0.2% chitosan, MTAD, saline (control group). After the mechanical preparation, the samples were irrigated with saline (control group), 0.2% chitosan and MTDA respectively. Then, the samples were split and the smear layer at the apical, middle, and coronal thirds of each root canal was imaged using SEM. The statistical analysis was performed using the Kruskal-Wallis test and the Mann-Whitney U test (α = 5%). The difference between chitosan and MTDA was statistically significant in the apical region (p < 0.05), no significant difference was obtained in the coronal and middle regions in these two experiment groups (p > 0.05). The control group exhibited the lowest efficacy in smear layer removal in all regions. Thus, from the result of the present study, we may conclude that chitosan was more effective in smear layer removal than MTAD especially in the apical third. CONTEXT: Irrigation, which serves a variety of purposes including antibacterial action, tissue dissolution, cleaning and chelating, plays a centric role in the final success of root canal treatment. Thus, more and more attention has been put on the improvement and development of various irrigation techniques or systems. AIMS: The aim of the present study was to compare the efficacy of chitosan and MTAD for the smear layer removal from the root canal through scanning electron microscopy (SEM). SETTINGS AND DESIGN: Thirty single-canal premolars were instrumented with rotary-files and then, randomly assigned to test groups which were irrigated with chitosan and MTDA, and control group was treated with saline. Thereafter, the efficacy of smear layer removal was evaluated by SEM. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Thirty teeth were randomly divided into three groups according to the final irrigants: 0.2% chitosan, MTAD, saline (control group). After the mechanical preparation, the samples were irrigated with saline (control group), 0.2% chitosan and MTDA respectively. Then, the samples were split and the smear layer at the apical, middle, and coronal thirds of each root canal was imaged using SEM. STATISTICAL ANALYSIS USED: Kruskal-Walli test and Mann-Whitney U test Results: The difference between chitosan and MTDA was statistically significant in the apical regions (p < 0.05), no significant difference was obtained in the coronal and middle regions in these two experiment groups (p > 0.05). The control group exhibited the lowest efficacy in smear layer removal in all regions. CONCLUSION: Thus, from the result of present study, we may conclude that chitosan was more effective in smear layer removal than MTAD, especially in the apical third.

Effects of different peracetic acid formulations on post space radicular dentin.

STATEMENT OF PROBLEM: The optimal irrigating solution with antimicrobial and dentin cleansing properties for post space preparation for fiber posts is unclear. Peracetic acid is one option but is available in various chemical formulations that require evaluation. PURPOSE: The purpose of this in vitro study was to evaluate dentin surface cleanliness based on the presence of a smear layer and the number of open dentin tubules. It also investigates the chemical composition of residues after canal irrigation with a 1% peracetic acid solution (PA) at low or high concentration of hydrogen peroxide during the preparation of intracanal fiber posts. MATERIAL AND METHODS: After filling the root canals of 40 mandibular incisors, a rotary instrument was used for intracanal preparation to place fiber posts. The teeth were divided into 4 groups (n=10) according to the post space irrigation protocol as follows: CG (control): distilled water; NA (NaOCl): 2.5% sodium hypochlorite; LH: PA with low concentration of hydrogen peroxide; and HH: PA with high concentrations of hydrogen peroxide. After irrigation, the teeth were sectioned, and the intracanal dentin surface was subjected to analysis using energy dispersive spectroscopy to evaluate chemical composition and to scanning electron microscopy (×500) to evaluate the presence of the smear layer. The number of open dentin tubules was measured by scanning electron microscopy analysis (×2000) using photo-editing software. ANOVA and the Tukey test (α=.05) were used to evaluate the data, except for the presence of a smear layer, for which the Kruskal-Wallis and Dunn tests were used (α=.05). RESULTS: The highest concentrations of oxygen in the dentin residues were detected in LH and HH (P<.05); CG and NA showed similar oxygen concentrations (P>.05). NA had a higher concentration of chlorine (P<.05), whereas LH had a lower amount of smear layer and a larger number of open dentin tubules than the other groups (P<.05). These were equivalent to each other (P>.05), except for HH, which also had a larger number of open dentin tubules than CG and NA (P<.05). CONCLUSIONS: PA 1% with a low concentration of hydrogen peroxide yielded a lower amount of smear layer and a larger number of open dentin tubules in the dentin of the post space when compared with PA 1% with a high concentration of hydrogen peroxide, despite maintaining a similar oxygen concentration in these dentin residues.

Free Active Chlorine in Sodium Hypochlorite Solutions Admixed with Octenidine, SmearOFF, Chlorhexidine, and EDTA.

INTRODUCTION: The therapeutic effects of sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl) solutions are dependent on the levels of free available chlorine (FAC). Mixing these solutions with irrigants can result in significant reductions in FAC. Although the effect of some irrigants on FAC is known, the effect of other commonly used irrigants is not. Thus, the therapeutic ramifications of the concurrent use of these on the efficiency of NaOCl solutions is not known. METHODS: Aliquots of 5.2% (w/v) NaOCl solutions were admixed in proportions of 90:10, 80:20, and 50:50 with the following irrigants: octenidine dihydrochloride (OCT); SmearOFF (Vista Dental Products, Racine, WI), 17% EDTA; and 0.2%, 2%, and 5% chlorhexidine (CHX) solutions. Changes in FAC were measured by iodometric titration. Statistical differences between means were determined using a post hoc Tukey analysis test after an analysis of variance. RESULTS: OCT appeared not to affect FAC and was significantly different than all other irrigants, except for 90:10 and 80:20 mixtures of low concentration (0.2%) CHX. CHX solutions showed a marked concentration- and mixture proportion-dependent detrimental effect on FAC. The reduction of FAC between different concentrations of CHX was statistically significant in 80:20 and 50:50 proportions, with 50:50 mixtures of 5% CHX having the greatest influence. Mixtures containing even small proportions of SmearOFF or EDTA exhibited significant losses in FAC. CONCLUSIONS: OCT has little effect on FAC and can be used concurrently with NaOCl solutions. Higher concentrations of CHX significantly affect FAC. Their combined use with NaOCl solutions should be avoided. EDTA and SmearOFF should not be mixed with NaOCl solutions.

Effects of different irrigation regimes in physico-chemical properties of dentin and consequences of changes in the adhesion of microorganisms and AH Plus sealer / Efeitos de diferentes regimes de irrigação nas propriedades físicoquímicas da dentina e consequências das alterações na adesão de microrganismos e do cimento endodôntico AH Plus

Besides of the desired effects, the chemical solutions used to assist the endodontic instruments in the cleanliness and disinfection of the root canal system can also cause changes in the physicochemical properties of dentin, and consequently affect the adhesion of endodontic sealers and microorganisms to the root canal walls. However, the effects of new irrigators and irrigation protocols remain unknown. The objectives of this thesis were to verify the alterations in the properties of some irrigants when used combined in mixtures, to define the time necessary for the smear layer removal by a new irrigant, to determine the organic matter dissolution capacity and the effects in the physicochemical properties of dentin of some irrigation solutions and protocols, and to evaluate the adhesion of microorganisms and AH Plus sealer to dentin after its submission to different irrigation sequences. In all experiments with dentin, the samples used were obtained from bovine teeth. In the analysis performed in this thesis, the following solutions were tested isolated and combined in different irrigation protocols: saline solution (control), sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl), trisodium (EDTAHNa3), alkaline ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid tetrasodium (EDTANa4), chlorhexidine (CHX), peracetic acid (PAA), and etidronic acid (HEDP). The EDTAHNa3 and EDTANa4 were tested in relation to their effects on the free chlorine content of NaOCl. The solutions were mixed in a 1:1 ratio and the iodometric titration of the mixtures performed in different time intervals. The time necessary for smear layer removal from dentin samples by solutions of EDTAHNa3 and different concentrations of EDTANa4 isolated and mixed with NaOCl was determined with the aid of the scanning electron microscope (SEM). The capacity of NaOCl to dissolve organic matter was determined by weighting fragments of bovine muscle before and after immersion in solutions of 1%, 2.5%, and 5% of NaOCl in different periods of time. Also, the effects of EDTAHNa3, EDTANa4 and HEDP on the organic matter dissolution by NaOCl were evaluated. The alterations produced by all solutions isolated and some irrigation protocols in the organic and inorganic components of the dentin surface were analysed by the attenuated total reflectance of Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (ATR-FTIR) technique. Absorbance spectra were collected from the dentin surface before and after immersion of samples in the irrigants and the ratios of the amide III/phosphate and carbonate/phosphate bands were calculated. To quantify the adhesion of CHX to mineralized dentin and to dentin demineralized by different irrigation protocols, the areas of the band associated with CHX with the peak in 1492 cm−1 were determined in spectra obtained by ATR-FTIR. The effects of different irrigation protocols in the roughness and wettability of dentin surface were measured with a benchtop roughness tester and the sessile drop technique, respectively. For the assays of microorganisms' adhesion, samples were prepared and treated the same way and with the same irrigation protocols used in the roughness and wettability tests. Following, Candida albicans and Enterococcus faecalis were maintained in contact with the dentin for 2 hours and the samples were analyzed on the confocal laser scanning microscope (CLSM). Tests of push-out were performed to determine the impact of different irrigation protocols on the dentin bonding strength of AH Plus sealer over time. Canals of bovine incisors teeth were instrumented, irrigated and following obturated using only the sealer AH Plus. Half of the samples were submitted to pushout assessment 7 days after the obturation and the other half 20 months later. The results of the experiments showed that the EDTAHNa3 caused an almost complete and immediate loss of free available chlorine from NaOCl, whilst EDTANa4 promoted a slow and concentration-dependent decline. The smear layer was removed only by decalcifying solutions and in about 1 min by the 17% EDTAHNa3 and 5 min by the EDTANa4, both isolated or mixed with NaOCl. The increase in NaOCl concentration and contact time with the samples intensified the dissolution of organic matter. The mixtures of NaOCl with EDTANa4 and HEDP were able to dissolve the fragments of bovine muscle over-time, however, the EDTAHNa3 strongly affected the NaOCl dissolution capacity when they were mixed. The results of ATR-FTIR experiments showed that the increase in the NaOCl concentration intensified the deproteination of the dentin collagen with a reduction in the amide III/phosphate ratio. For the same decalcifying agent, the higher the concentration and immersion time the greater the removal of phosphate, exposure of the collagen matrix and consequently the increases in amide III/phosphate ratio. The PAA caused greater increases in amide III/phosphate ratio, followed by EDTAHNa3, EDTANa4 and HEDP and this order was maintained in the protocols in which NaOCl was used before the decalcifying agents. NaOCl required approximately 0.5 min to deproteinate the collagen matrix exposed after phosphate removal by EDTAHNa3 and PAA. The carbonate/phosphate ratio decreased after 30 s of samples immersion in solutions of NaOCl at 1%, 2.5% and 5% with no more alterations over time. The carbonate of the dentine was removed faster than phosphate by all decalcifying agents employed alone and in the irrigation protocols in which the use of the NaOCl was followed by the use of the EDTAHNa3, PAA and HEDP. For irrigation protocols that associate NaOCl with chelating solutions, the last irrigant used defined the final dentine amide III/phosphate and carbonate/phosphate ratios. For the ATR-FTIR analysis of CHX adhesion, the results showed that the adsorption of this irrigant to the dentin was potentiated when chelating agents were used prior to the CHX. In relation to the experiments of surface roughness, the saline solution, NaOCl, HEDP and CHX did not alter the roughness of the dentin, but EDTAHNa3 and PAA increased it. The wettability of the surface increased after the use of all irrigants, being the HEDP to cause the greater increases. In the assays of microorganisms' adhesion, the smear layer and collagen exposed by the chelating agents favored the adhesion of E. faecalis. The C. albicans adhesion was major in surfaces with smear layer and more mineral. The use of CHX as the final irrigant reduced the adhesion of both microorganisms. The wettability did not influence the microorganisms' adhesion, while increases in roughness seems to potentiate the adherence of E. faecalis. The experiments of bond strength of AH Plus to the dentin showed that the irrigation with NaOCl and mixture of NaOCl + EDTANa4 produced the lowest push-out bond strength values in 7 days compared to NaOCl + EDTAHNa3, NaOCl + EDTAHNa3 + NaOCl, NaOCl + EDTAHNa3 + CHX and the mixture of NaOCl + HEDP. After 20 months the lowest values were obtained in the groups irrigated with NaOCl and NaOCl + EDTAHNa3. The groups of NaOCl + EDTAHNa3 + NaOCl, mixture NaOCl + HEDP, and mixture NaOCl + EDTANa4 presented values of push-out bond strength in 20 months similar to the values in 7 days. It was possible to conclude that the irrigation solutions tested in this study have different effects in the organic and inorganic matter and some of them can affect the action of each other when mixed. Independent of being used isolated or combined in irrigation protocols, these irrigants cause modifications in the dentin physicochemical properties that influence the adhesion of AH Plus sealer in short and long term and the microorganisms' adherence to the surface in cases of recontaminations.(AU)

Além dos efeitos desejados, as soluções químicas utilizadas para auxiliar os instrumentos endodônticos na limpeza e desinfecção do sistema radiculares podem causar alterações nas propriedades físico-químicas da dentina e consequentemente afetar a adesão de cimentos endodônticos e microrganismos às paredes do canal radicular. Contudo, os efeitos de novos irrigantes e protocolos de irrigação ainda são desconhecidos. Os objetivos desta tese foram verificar as alterações nas propriedades de alguns irrigantes quando utilizados combinados em misturas, definir o tempo necessário para a remoção da camada de smear layer por um novo irrigante, determinar a capacidade de dissolução de matéria orgânica e os efeitos de algumas soluções e protocolos de irrigação nas propriedades físico-químicas de dentina e avaliar a adesão de microrganismos e cimento AH Plus à dentina após a submissão desta a diferentes sequências de irrigação. Em todos os experimentos com dentina as amostras utilizadas foram obtidas a partir de dentes bovinos. Nas análise realizadas nesta tese as seguintes soluções foram testadas isoladas e combinadas em diferentes protocolos de irrigação: solução salina (controle), hipoclorito de sódio (NaOCl), ácido etilenodiaminotetraacético trisódico (EDTAHNa3), ácido etilenodiaminotetracético tetrassódico alcalino (EDTANa4), clorexidina (CHX), ácido peracético (PAA) e ácido etidrônico (HEDP). O EDTAHNa3 e o EDTANa4 foram testados em relação aos seus efeitos sobre o teor de cloro livre do NaOCl. As soluções foram misturadas em uma proporção de 1:1 e a titulação iodométrica das misturas realizada em diferentes intervalos de tempo. O tempo necessário para a remoção da smear layer de amostras de dentina pela solução de EDTAHNa3 a 17% e diferentes concentrações de EDTANa4 isoladas e misturadas com NaOCl foi determinado com o auxílio do microscópio eletrônico de varredura (SEM). A capacidade de dissolução de matéria orgânica pelo NaOCl foi determinada pesando fragmentos de músculo bovino antes e depois da imersão em soluções de 1%, 2,5% e 5% de NaOCl em diferentes períodos de tempo. Além disso, os efeitos do EDTAHNa3, EDTANa4 e HEDP na dissolução de matéria orgânica pelo NaOCl foram avaliados. As alterações produzidas por todas as soluções isoladas e alguns protocolos de irrigação nos componentes orgânicos e inorgânicos da superfície da dentina foram analisadas pela técnica de reflexão total atenuada em espectroscopia no infravermelho por transformação de Fourier (ATRFTIR). Espectros de absorbância foram coletados da superfície da dentina antes e após a imersão das amostras nos irrigantes, e foram calculadas as razões das bandas de amida III/fosfato e carbonato/fosfato. Para quantificar a adesão da CHX à dentina mineralizada e à dentina desmineralizada por diferentes protocolos de irrigação, foram determinadas as áreas da banda associada a CHX com pico em 1492 cm−1 em espectros obtidos por ATR-FTIR. Os efeitos de diferentes protocolos de irrigação na rugosidade e molhabilidade da superfície da dentina foram medidos com um rugosímetro de bancada e a técnica de gota séssil, respectivamente. Para os ensaios de adesão de microrganismos, amostras foram preparadas e tratadas da mesma maneira e com os mesmos protocolos de irrigação utilizados nos testes de rugosidade e molhabilidade. Em seguida, Candida albicans e Enterococcus faecalis foram mantidos em contato com a dentina por 2 horas e as amostras foram analisadas no microscópio confocal de varredura laser (CLSM). Testes de push-out foram realizados para determinar o impacto de diferentes protocolos de irrigação na resistência de união à dentina do cimento AH Plus ao longo do tempo. Canais de dentes incisivos de bovinos foram instrumentados, irrigados e em seguida obturados utilizando apenas o cimento AH Plus. Metade das amostras foi submetida a avaliação de push-out 7 dias após a obturação e a outra metade após 20 meses. Os resultados dos experimentos mostraram que o EDTAHNa3 causou uma perda quase completa e imediata do cloro livre do NaOCl, enquanto o EDTANa4 promoveu um declínio lento e concentração dependente. A smear layer foi removida apenas por soluções descalcificantes e em cerca de 1 min pelo EDTAHNa3 a 17% e em 5 min pelo EDTANa4, tanto isolados ou misturados com o NaOCl. O aumento da concentração de NaOCl e do tempo de contato com os fragmentos de músculo bovino intensificou a dissolução da matéria orgânica. As misturas de NaOCl com EDTANa4 e HEDP foram capazes de dissolver as amostras de músculo ao longo do tempo, no entanto, o EDTAHNa3 afetou fortemente a capacidade de dissolução do NaOCl quando eles foram misturados. Os resultados dos experimentos com ATR-FTIR mostraram que o aumento da concentração do NaOCl intensificou a desproteinização do colágeno da dentina com redução da relação amida III/fosfato. Para o mesmo agente de descalcificação, quanto maior a concentração e o tempo de imersão, maior a remoção de fosfato, exposição da matriz de colágeno e consequentemente o aumento da proporção amida III/fosfato. O PAA causou os maiores aumentos na relação amida III/fosfato, seguido de EDTAHNa3, EDTANa4 e HEDP e esta ordem foi mantida nos protocolos em que o NaOCl foi usado antes dos agentes descalcificantes. O NaOCl necessitou aproximadamente 0,5 min para desproteinizar a matriz de colágeno exposta após a remoção de fosfato pelo EDTAHNa3 e o PAA. A relação carbonato/fosfato diminuiu após 30 s de imersão das amostras em soluções de NaOCl a 1%, 2,5% e 5%, sem mais alterações ao longo do tempo. O carbonato da dentina foi removido mais rápido do que o fosfato por todos os agentes descalcificantes empregados sozinhos e nos protocolos de irrigação em que o uso do NaOCl foi seguido pelo uso do EDTAHNa3, PAA e HEDP. Para os protocolos de irrigação que associam o NaOCl com soluções quelantes, o último irrigante utilizado definiu as proporções finais de amida II/fosfato e carbonato/fosfato da dentina. Para as análises da adesão da CHX em ATR-FTIR, os resultados mostraram que a adsorção deste irrigante à dentina foi potencializada quando agentes quelantes foram utilizados antes da CHX. Em relação aos experimentos de rugosidade da superfície, a solução salina, o NaOCl, o HEDP e a CHX não alteraram a rugosidade da dentina, mas o EDTAHNa3 e o PAA a aumentaram. A molhabilidade da superfície aumentou após o uso de todos os irrigantes, sendo que o HEDP causou os maiores aumentos. Nos ensaios de adesão dos microrganismos, a smear layer e o colágeno exposto pelos agentes quelantes favoreceram a adesão de E. faecalis. A adesão da C. albicans foi maior em superfícies com smear layer ou mais mineral. O uso de CHX como irrigante final reduziu a adesão de ambos os microrganismos. A molhabilidade não influenciou a adesão dos microrganismos, enquanto o aumento da rugosidade parece potencializar a adesão do E. faecalis. Os experimentos de resistência de união do AH Plus à dentina mostraram que a irrigação com NaOCl e a mistura de NaOCl + EDTANa4 produziram valores de resistência de união em 7 dias mais baixos em comparação com NaOCl + EDTAHNa3, NaOCl + EDTAHNa3 + NaOCl, NaOCl + EDTAHNa3 + CHX e a mistura de NaOCl + HEDP. Após 20 meses, os valores mais baixos foram obtidos nos grupos irrigados com NaOCl e NaOCl + EDTAHNa3. Os grupos de NaOCl + EDTAHNa3 + NaOCl, mistura de NaOCl + HEDP e mistura de NaOCl + EDTANa4 apresentaram valores de força de união por push-out em 20 meses semelhante aos valores em 7 dias. Foi possível concluir que as soluções de irrigação testadas neste estudo têm diferentes efeitos na matéria orgânica e inorgânica e elas podem afetar as ações umas das outras quando misturadas. Independentemente de serem utilizadas isoladas ou combinadas em protocolos de irrigação, os irrigantes causam modificações nas propriedades físico-químicas dentinárias que influenciam na adesão do cimento AH Plus a curto e longo prazo e na adesão de microrganismos à superfície em casos de recontaminação.(AU)

Influence of Root Canal Tapering on Smear Layer Removal.

The purpose of the study presented here was to compare the influence of root canal taper on the efficacy of irrigants and chelating agents in smear layer removal. Eighty mesial roots of molar teeth were selected and prepared with rotary instruments. In group A, file 30/0.02 and in group B, file 30/0.4 were placed at working length and the smear layer was removed. In groups C and D, root canal preparation was the same as in groups A and B, respectively, except that the smear layer was not removed. The amount of the smear layer was quantified using a scanning electron microscope. Greater smear layer was detected in the apical portion of each group, whereas no significant difference was detected between groups in other portions. No statistical difference was found between canals with different tapers.

Evaluation of the smear layer removal and erosive capacity of EDTA, boric acid, citric acid and desy clean solutions: an in vitro study.

BACKGROUND: The purpose of this study was to investigate the smear layer removal and erosive capacity of various irrigation solutions with sequential use of NaOCl on instrumented root canal walls. METHODS: The root canals of single-rooted teeth were instrumented with ProTaper rotary instrument. Then, the teeth were randomly divided into five experimental groups. The root canals were irrigated with one of the following solutions (5 mL/1 min): 5% EDTA, 5% boric acid (BA), a mixture of BA and CA, 2.5% citric acid (CA) and 5% Desy Clean. After irrigating with 2.5% NaOCl and distilled water, the roots were split into two halves and each half was prepared for SEM examination. Representative photographs were taken from each third at x500 and x1000 magnifications. Double blind scoring was performed by two calibrated observers for smear layer and erosion. The scores were statistically analyzed using Kruskal-Wallis, Dunn's post hoc and Spearman's correlation tests (p = 0.05). RESULTS: There were statistically significant differences among the solutions by means of smear layer and erosion (p < 0.05). While 2.5% CA solution was the most effective solution in removal of smear layer, it was also the most erosive solution (p < 0.05). 5% Desy Clean removed smear layer effectively and caused less erosion. There was a negative, but statistically significant correlation between presence of smear layer and erosion (r = -0.684; p < 0.0001). CONCLUSION: Desy Clean can be a promising agent as an irrigation solution with optimal smear layer removal capacity and less erosive effects.

Influence of diode laser application on the efficiency of QMiX and EDTA solutions in removing smear layer.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to compare the efficacy of QMiX and ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) solutions with diode laser treatment in smear layer removal. BACKGROUND DATA: Removing the smear layer from the apical thirds of root canals is difficult, regardless of the solution used. Researchers have been improved some irrigation agitation methods to overcome this challenge, and agitation of irrigants with laser devices has become popular. METHODS: Seventy-five extracted mandibular premolars were used. After root canals were, prepared the specimens were divided into five groups (n = 15): Group 1, no irrigation; Group 2, 17% EDTA; Group 3, QMiX solution; Group 4, 17% EDTA with diode laser; and Group 5, QMiX with diode laser. The roots were split longitudinally and prepared for scanning electron microscopic (SEM) investigation. The smear layer was evaluated under × 500, × 1000, and × 2000 magnifications. RESULTS: The amount of smear layer was found significantly high in the control group (p < 0.001). In the EDTA group, the amount of smear layer was significantly high at the apical thirds, and the differences among the three regions were statistically significant (p < 0.001). In the QMiX group, no difference was found between the coronal and middle thirds; however, the amount of smear layer was significantly high at the apical thirds (p < 0.001). In the EDTA plus laser and the QMiX plus laser groups, the smear layer was found significantly high at the apical thirds (p < 0.001). However, no differences were found between the coronal and middle thirds in either group. CONCLUSIONS: None of the solutions completely removed the smear layer, especially at the apical thirds. Diode laser treatment with solutions decreased the amount of smear layer, without significance.

Evaluation of different irrigating solutions on smear layer removal of primary root dentin.

AIM: To evaluate the efficacy of ethanolic extract of Salvadora persica (S. persica) and BioPure MTAD (a mixture of a tetracycline isomer, an acid, and a detergent) in removing the intracanal smear layer of primary teeth. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The root canal of 40 extracted human primary anterior teeth were cleaned, shaped and grouped into experimental (n = 30) and control (n = 10). The root canals of the positive (n = 5) and the negative control (n = 5) were irrigated for 3 minutes with 5 ml of 17% ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) or saline respectively. The canals in the experimental groups were irrigated for 3 minutes with 5 ml of 1 mg/ml ethanolic extract of S. persica (n = 15) or BioPure MTAD (n = 15) and then flushed with 2 ml of saline. The presence or absence of smear layer at the coronal and middle portion of each canal were examined under a scanning electron microscope (SEM). RESULTS: A significant difference (p = 0.004) in smear layer removal between S. persica and MTAD at the middle third of the canal was observed. MTAD solution was as effective as 17% EDTA in removing the smear layer. CONCLUSION: MTAD was significantly more effective in smear layer removal than S. persica solution at the middle third of the canal wall. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Both tested irrigant solutions have the ability to remove the intracanal smear from primary root dentin following cleaning and shaping of the root canal and could be an alternative to EDTA.

Phytic acid: an alternative root canal chelating agent.

INTRODUCTION: The objectives of this study were to investigate the effect of phytic acid, inositol hexakisphosphate (IP6), as a final rinse on the surface of instrumented root canals and smear-layered flat dentin surfaces treated with sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl) and to evaluate its effect on the viability and alkaline phosphatase activity of osteoblast-like cells (MC3T3-E1). METHODS: The universally accepted chelating agent EDTA was used as the control in all conducted experiments. Root canals of human canines were instrumented with rotary files and irrigated with 5% NaOCl, followed by a final rinse of 17% EDTA (1 minute), 1% IP6 (1 minute or 30 seconds), or distilled water. NaOCl-treated flat coronal dentin surfaces were also treated with 17% EDTA (1 minute), 1% IP6 (1 minute or 30 seconds), or distilled water. The presence or absence of smear layer was evaluated with scanning electron microscopy. Cell viability and alkaline phosphatase assays were performed to evaluate the effect of IP6 and EDTA on cultured MC3T3-E1 cells. RESULTS: The results demonstrated the ability of IP6 to remove the smear layer from instrumented root canals and flat coronal dentin surfaces. When compared with EDTA, IP6 was less cytotoxic and did not affect the differentiation of MC3T3-E1 cells. CONCLUSIONS: IP6 shows the potential to be an effective and biocompatible chelating agent.

Assessment of smear layer removal protocols in curved root canals.

This study sought to assess if the final rinse protocol interferes with the smear layer removal in the apical area of curved canals. Sixty-four extracted human mandibular molars with curved mesial roots were instrumented with rotary files and divided into six experimental groups for final rinse: 1EDTA (syringe irrigation with 1 mL of 17% ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) ), 5EDTA (syringe irrigation with 5 mL of 17% EDTA), 1EDTA-P (syringe irrigation with 1 mL of 17% EDTA + pumping with gutta-percha point), 5EDTA-P (syringe irrigation with 5 mL of 17% EDTA + pumping with gutta-percha point), 1EDTA-EA (syringe irrigation with 1 mL of 17% EDTA + EndoActivator) and 5EDTA-EA (syringe irrigation with 5 mL of 17% EDTA + EndoActivator). Final rinsing was carried out over 3 min. The specimens were split lengthwise and observed under a scanning electron microscope using a score criterion. Comparison among the groups showed statistically significant difference only between the 5EDTA-EA group and the other groups (Kruskal-Wallis and Dunn's post-hoc tests, P < 0.05). The combination of 5 mL of 17% EDTA and 3 mL of 2.5% sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl) with the EndoActivator removed smear layer from the apical area of curved root canals more effectively than the other protocols used.

Activation of ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid by a 940 nm diode laser for enhanced removal of smear layer.

Laser enhancement of ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid with cetrimide (EDTAC) has previously been shown to increase removal of smear layer, for middle-infrared erbium lasers. This study evaluated the efficiency of EDTAC activation using a near-infrared-pulsed 940 nm laser delivered by plain fibre tips into 15% EDTAC or 3% hydrogen peroxide. Root canals in 4 groups of 10 single roots were prepared using rotary files, with controls for the presence and absence of smear layer. After laser treatment (80 mJ pulse(-1) , 50 Hz, 6 cycles of 10 s), roots were split and the apical, middle and coronal thirds of the canal were examined using scanning electron microscopy, with the area of dentine tubules determined by a validated quantitative image analysis method. Lasing EDTAC considerably improved smear layer removal, while lasing into peroxide gave minimal smear layer removal. The laser protocol used was more effective for smear layer removal than the 'gold standard' protocol using EDTAC with sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl). In addition, lasers may also provide a benefit through photothermal disinfection. Further research is needed to optimise irrigant activation protocols using near-infrared diode lasers of other wavelengths.

Debris remaining in the apical third of root canals after chemomechanical preparation by using sodium hypochlorite and glyde: an in vivo study.

INTRODUCTION: During chemomechanical instrumentation, several liquid or paste substances are used to ease the action of the files and to eliminate debris and the smear layer. The aim of this study was to evaluate whether the use of a paste containing EDTA during cleaning and shaping of the root canal helps to eliminate debris. METHODS: Twenty root canals in dog teeth were instrumented by a crown-down technique by using nickel-titanium rotary files. In 10 root canals (group A), sodium hypochlorite was used during instrumentation, followed by a final irrigation with 17% liquid EDTA. In another 10 canals (group B), sodium hypochlorite was again used as the irrigating solution, but Glyde File Prep paste was used with every instrument, and a final irrigation with EDTA was also carried out. Two additional teeth were used as positive and 2 as negative controls. The jaws were prepared for histologic evaluation. RESULTS: In group A where Glyde was not used during cleaning and shaping, little or no debris was found in the apical third of the instrumented root canals; however; in group B in which Glyde File Prep paste was used during chemomechanical instrumentation, moderate to high accumulation of debris was observed in the apical third. CONCLUSIONS: The use of Glyde File Prep paste during rotary mechanical instrumentation favors the accumulation of debris in the apical third of the root canals. Irrigation with NaOCl and a final flush with EDTA by means of a small-gauge needle with simultaneous aspiration led to less accumulation of debris than in the Glyde File Prep group (P < .05).

Comparison of the efficacy of Smear Clear with and without a canal brush in smear layer and debris removal from instrumented root canal using WaveOne versus ProTaper: a scanning electron microscopic study.

INTRODUCTION: The aim of this study was to compare by scanning electron microscopy the presence of smear layer and debris on root canal walls after preparation with the single-file system WaveOne (Dentsply Maillefer, Ballaigues, Switzerland) versus the rotary ProTaper system (Dentsply Maillefer, Ballaigues, Switzerland) under 2 final irrigant regimens. METHODS: Forty freshly extracted single-rooted human teeth were randomly divided into 4 groups (n = 10). The ProTaper and ProTaper and rotary CanalBrush (Coltène Whaledent GmbH+ Co KG, Langenau, Germany) groups were instrumented with the ProTaper system. Groups WaveOne and WaveOne and rotary CanalBrush were instrumented with the WaveOne system. The irrigant in all groups was 2 mL 5.25% sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl) solution, whereas the final irrigation after preparation in the ProTaper and WaveOne groups was 1 mL Smear Clear solution (Sybron Endo, Orange, CA) and then 5.25% NaOCl applied with a plastic syringe, and in the ProTaper and rotary CanalBrush and WaveOne and rotary CanalBrush groups, it was 1 mL Smear Clear solution and then 5.25% NaOCl (rotary CanalBrush agitation). Roots were processed for scanning electron microscopic examination for debris and smear layer scoring. Data were statistically analyzed. RESULTS: All groups showed more efficient smear layer and debris removal coronally than in the middle and apical regions, whereas the mean total debris score and the mean smear layer score in all groups were less in the WaveOne and rotary CanalBrush groups than the ProTaper and rotary CanalBrush and the WaveOne and ProTaper groups. CONCLUSIONS: Using the rotary CanalBrush in canals prepared with WaveOne produced the cleanest canal walls, and the WaveOne system gave superior results compared with the ProTaper system.

Effect of smear layer deproteinizing on resin-dentine interface with self-etch adhesive.

OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to investigate deproteinizing effect of sodium-hypochlorite (NaOCl) and mild acidic hypochlorous-acid (HOCl) pretreatment on smear layer-covered dentine and to evaluate their effects on morphological characteristics of resin-dentine interface with self-etch adhesive. METHODS: Human coronal-dentine discs with standardized smear layer were pretreated with 6% NaOCl or 50ppm HOCl for 15s or 30s. Their deproteinizing effects at the treated smear layer-covered dentine surfaces were determined by the measurement of amide:phosphate ratio using ATR-FTIR analysis. In addition, using TEM, micromorphological alterations of hybridized complex and nanoleakage expression were evaluated at the interface of a self-etch adhesive (Clearfil SE Bond) to the pretreated dentine surface with or without subsequent application of a reducing agent (p-Toluenesulfinic acid salt; Accel(®)). RESULTS: Both pretreatments of NaOCl and HOCl significantly reduced the amide:phosphate ratio as compared with the no-pretreated group (p<0.05), coincident with the elimination of the hybridized smear layer on their bonded interfaces. Nanoleakage within the hybrid layer was found in the no-pretreated and NaOCl-pretreated groups, whereas the subsequent reducing agent application changed the reticular nanoleakage to spotted type. HOCl-pretreated groups showed less nanoleakage expression in a spotted pattern, regardless of reducing agent application. CONCLUSIONS: NaOCl and HOCl solutions could remove the organic component on the smear layer-covered dentine, which could eliminate the hybridized smear layer created by self-etch adhesive, leading to the reduction of nanoleakage expression within hybrid layer. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Smear layer deproteinizing could modify dentine surface, giving an appropriate substrate for bonding to self-etch adhesive system.