Evaluation of Effectiveness of Cleaning of Root Canals using Protaper and K3 Rotary Systems: A SEm Study

The aim of this in vitro study was to compare the debris and smear layer removal following root canal preparation using two different rotary systems with scanning electron microscope (SEM). The rotary systems used were Protaper and K3. Forty single rooted permanent mandibular premolars were chosen for the study. They were assigned two groups on the basis of instrumentation used. The teeth were sectioned at the level of cementoenamel junction and instrumented with Protaper in group A and with K3 in group B. The root canals were thoroughly irrigated with 5 ml of 2.5 % NaOCl during instrumentation. After instrumentation, 5 ml of normal saline was used as a final rinse. The teeth were split longitudinally and the specimens were prepared for SEM evaluation. Scanning electron microscope photomicrographs showed presence of debris and smear layer. The SEM photomicrographs were scored, based on the stan dard score rating system, and the scores were tabulated accordingly. The scores obtained from the specimens were subjected to statistical analysis. Results showed opening of dentinal tubules and effective removal of smear layer in group A (Protaper) and no significant difference between both the groups (groups A and B) regarding debris.