An In Vitro Evaluation of Passive Ultrasonic Agitation of Different Irrigants on Smear Layer Removal After Post Space Preparation: A Scanning Electron Microscopic Study

Abstract

This study evaluated the removal of debris and smear layer after post space preparation using different irrigations and passive ultrasonic agitation. Sixty human premolars were decoronated and post space prepared after endodontic therapy. The samples were then randomly divided into three experimental groups (Groups A, B, C) and one control group (Group D) with fifteen samples in each group. Groups A and B samples were treated with 10% citric acid and 17% ethylenediamintetraacetic acid (EDTA), respectively and passive ultrasonic agitation was done, rinsed with sodium hypochlorite and finally flushed with saline. Group C samples were conditioned with 36% phosphoric acid and then rinsed with saline. The control group was treated with 3% sodium hypochlorite, passive ultrasonic agitation done and flushed with saline. The samples were sectioned and evaluated for debris and smear layer removal under scanning electron microscope. 10% citric acid showed the best removal of smear layer when compared with 17% EDTA and 36% phosphoric acid, but was not statistically significant (p>0.05). The difference in scoring for debris and smear layer removal in the coronal, middle and apical third of post space of experimental groups in comparison with control group was statistically significant (p<0.001).