Removal of smear layer by various root canal irrigations in primary teeth

Abstract Purpose Proper root canal irrigation is essential for endodontic treatment. To evaluate the effectiveness of several root irrigation regimens, the extent of the removal of smear layer from the root canal in primary teeth was analyzed. Methods Fifteen extracted human primary teeth were divided into five groups and subjected to the following irrigation regimes: Group 1, needle irrigation with saline; Group 2, needle irrigation with 5% sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl); Group 3, ultrasonic irrigation with 5% NaOCl; Group 4, needle irrigation with 14% ethylene diamine tetraacetic acid (EDTA); Group 5, ultrasonic irrigation with 14% EDTA. The percentage of open dentinal tubules (POD) in the irrigated root canal was analyzed using a scanning electron microscope. Results POD for Groups 4 and 5 were significantly higher than Groups 1, 2, and 3 ( p p Conclusion These results suggest that root canal irrigation with NaOCl using an ultrasonic effectively removed smear layer from the root canal in primary teeth.