Aim: This study aimed to evaluate the effects of different irrigation solutions on smear layer removal and the adhesion of resin-based sealers to root canal dentine. Effective irrigation is crucial in endodontic success by removing debris and enhancing sealer adaptability. While traditional irrigants like ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) and sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl) are widely used, newer alternatives such as etidronic acid (A1-hydroxyethylidene 1, 1-bisphosphonate HEBP) aim to improve smear layer removal while preserving NaOCl’s antimicrobial properties. Methods: Sample size was calculated from a pilot study ( n = 4 per group) using G*Power 3.1, which estimated 50 specimens (10 per group), increased to 56 to compensate for potential specimen loss. Fifty-six extracted mandibular premolars were decoronated and assigned to four experimental groups based on the irrigation protocol used. Group 1 received 3% NaOCl and 17% EDTA, Group 2 received 3% NaOCl and 8% HEBP, Group 3 received 3% NaOCl and 18% HEBP and Group 4 received 3% NaOCl and citric acid (CA). Smear layer removal was assessed using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). After irrigation, canals were filled with AH Plus sealer and gutta-percha and marginal adaptation was evaluated. Results: The 18% HEBP group exhibited the most effective smear layer removal. HEBP-treated samples demonstrated smaller marginal gaps compared to EDTA or CA, indicating improved sealer adhesion. AH Plus sealer showed strong adaptability, particularly in specimens irrigated with HEBP solutions. Conclusion: The combination of HEBP and NaOCl effectively removes the smear layer while preserving NaOCl’s antimicrobial properties. It also enhances sealer adaptability, making it a preferable choice over EDTA and CA in clinical endodontics.
Rudranaik et al. (Thu,) studied this question.