Comparative evaluation of root canal dentin erosion after using different smear layer removing solutions for root canal irrigation by scanning electron microscope (SEM) and energy dispersive x-ray spectroscopy (EDS): An in-vitro study

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate and compare the effect of different final irrigating solutions (17% EDTA, Smear Clear, QMix and BioPure MTAD) on root canal dentin erosion in the coronal, middle and apical third of root by Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) and Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy (EDS). Materials and Methods: A total of 105 recently extracted mandibular premolars were taken and decoronated to a standardized root length of 12mm. They were prepared using ProTaper system up to size F3. Initial rinse was done with sodium hypochlorite. After completion of root canal preparation, all root canals were subjected to final irrigation protocol. Group 1 was irrigated with 17% EDTA for 1 min. Group 2 was irrigated with Smear Clear for 1 min. Group 3 was irrigated with QMix for 1 min. Group 4 was irrigated with MTAD for 5 min. Group 5 was irrigated with distilled water. Out of 21 samples in each group, 10 were analysed by SEM and 11 were analysed by EDS. Results: The results of the SEM analysis revealed that the use of 17% EDTA and Smear Clear resulted in significantly more erosion than the use of QMix and MTAD. No statistically significant difference was observed at the coronal, middle and apical thirds in the amount of dentin erosion. The results of EDS analysis revealed that all treatment groups significantly decreased calcium content in comparison to control group. However, no significant difference was observed among EDTA, Smear Clear, Qmix and MTAD in decreasing calcium levels in dentin. Conclusion: BioPure MTAD and QMiX cause negligible dentin erosion and thus can be used as alternative final irrigating solutions after sodium hypochlorite instead of EDTA and Smear Clear.