Strategies to optimize the removal of smear layer from the root canal system

Abstract

Objective: to evaluate the different methods for agitation of the irrigation solution based on the existing literature data, comparing the use of EndoActivator, EndoVac, Easy Clean system, Xp-Endo Finisher, Photon Induced Photoacoustic Streaming (PIPS) and Passive Ultrasonic Irrigation (PUI) associated with chemical agents in the removal of the RCS smear layer. Material and Methods: 28 journals articles, 2 books, 2 monographs and 6 dissertations were selected regarding the different alternatives for the removal of smear layer from the RCS in the PUBMED databases - US National Library of Medicine National Institutes of Health; SCIELO - Scientific Electronic Library Online and MEDLINE - Medlars Online. Results: as an alternative of removal of smear layer to improve sanitizing of the RCS and to increase the success rate of the endodontic treatment, different irrigation techniques have been proposed, including agitation of irrigation solution in mechanical, sonic or ultrasonic way, Ni-Ti instruments, plastic and laser energy. Conclusion: many studies prove the efficacy of the different methods for agitation of the irrigating solution in the removal of smear layer, contributing for the sanitizing process of the root canal system.

Keywords

• smear layer
• solução irrigadora
• tratamento endodôntico