Scanning Electron Microscopic Comparative Analysis of Smear Layer Removal using Ethylenediaminetetraacetic Acid and Chitosan Activated by Ultrasonics and Diode Laser: An In vitro Study

Abstract

Context: The inorganic component of the smear layer is traditionally removed using ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA). Aims: This study was done to compare the ability of smear layer removal by ultrasonic activation and diode laser activation of EDTA with Chitosan– which is a novel nanoparticle-based chelating agent. Settings and Design: Prospective in vitro experimental study conducted in a tertiary care Dental college and hospital for 6 months. Subjects and Methods: Seventy-five mandibular premolars with single canal were decoronated to standardize the root length to 14 mm. Canals were prepared up to Protaper F3 and the specimens were randomly divided into three groups and two subgroups based on the irrigation protocol. Group A (Normal saline), Group B1 and B2 (ultrasonically activated–EDTA and Chitosan, respectively), Group C1 and C2 (Diode laser-activated– EDTA and Chitosan, respectively). Samples were processed for scanning electron microscopic(SEM) analysis. Photographs were taken in the apical, middle, and coronal thirds. Data were collected using Gutmann’s scoring criteria.Statistical Analysis Used: Statistical analysis was performed using one-way analysis of variance and Tukey’s post hoc test (P < 0.05). Results: Diode laser-activated EDTA had the highest efficacy of smear layer removal at the coronal third. In the middle and apical third, ultrasonically activated EDTA had the highest efficacy. Conclusions: Chitosan may be considered as an alternative to EDTA, in the removal of smear layer considering the drawbacks of EDTA.