Effectiveness of XP-EndoFinisher, Ultrasonic and EndoActivator on Debris and Smear Layer Removal in Curved Root Canals: A Scanning Electron Microscope Study

The purpose of this study was to assess the efficacy of XP-Endo finisher in comparison to other irrigation regimens after biomechanical preparation, on debris and smear layer removal in curved root canals. Sixty freshly extracted mandibular molar teeth with the mesial root curvature more than 20 degree were used in this study. The mesial root was prepared by using Neo Endo Flex file and divide into four groups[n=15] according to the following irrigation techniques; control group, XP-Endo Finisher, Ultrasonic, EndoActivator. Root canals were split longitudinally and were evaluated by scanning electron microscopy. Five grade scoring criteria was used to assess the debris and smear layer at coronal, middle and apical third of the canals. Under the tested conditions it may be concluded that XP-Endo Finisher group is more effective in removing debris and smear layer compared to other groups except at apical third where it is same as effective as Ultrasonic group. Coronal region has less debris and smear layer at all groups except the control group where there is no significant difference between the apical and middle regions.