ASSESSMENT OF CALCIUM HYDROXIDE REMOVAL USING BIOAKT ENDO ROOT CANAL IRRIGATION UNDER A SCANNING ELECTRON MICROSCOPE (IN-VITRO STUDY)

Background: Calcium hydroxide is widely used in endodontics when single-visit treatment isn't possible, but its removal can be challenging. Effective removal requires thorough manual instrumentation and ample irrigation.Aim: This study aimed at assessing the efficacy of BioAkt Endo in removal of Ca(OH)2 under a scanning electron microscope. Materials and Methods: Forty-four single-rooted lower premolars were divided into four groups to evaluate the effectiveness of different irrigation techniques for removing Ca(OH)2 after one week. Group I used 0.5% BioAkt Endo, Group II used 0.5% BioAkt Endo with XP-endo Finisher activation, Group III used 2.5% NaOCl + 17% EDTA with XP-endo Finisher activation, and Group IV used 2.5% NaOCl + 17% EDTA without XP-endo Finisher. The remaining Ca(OH)2 was assessed using SEM and a scoring system to evaluate residue in the canal.Results: based on Ca(OH)2 removal along the whole length of the root canal; group III (2.5% NaOCl + 17% EDTA with XP-endo Finisher) was most effective in removing Ca(OH)2, with a median score of 2.00, followed by group II (BioAkt Endo + XP-endo Finisher) with a median score of 3.00. Groups I and IV had the lowest efficacy, both with a median score of 4.00. Significant differences were found between group III and groups I and IV, and between group I and II, with group III and II showing superior results.Conclusion: BioAkt Endo is not competent for proper removal of Ca(OH)2. However, BioAkt Endo, when used in conjunction with XP-endo Finisher, yields promising results in removing Ca(OH)2.