Effect of different irrigation activation techniques on irrigant penetration depth into root canals: a randomized clinical trial

Abstract Aim To evaluate the effect of different root canal irrigation activation techniques (XP-endo Finisher file and sonic EDDY system) on penetration depth of irrigating solution into the apical third of root canals. Patients and methods Thirty patients requiring endodontic therapy of asymptomatic vital or non-vital maxillary central incisor or canine teeth were enrolled in this study. Root canal treatment was done in single visit using ProTaper Universal rotary system. Irrigation was done using 2.5% sodium hypochlorite. Patients were randomly assigned into three equal groups according to the final irrigation activation method, group 1: needle irrigation, group 2: XP-endo Finisher file activation, and group 3: sonic EDDY activation system. Final irrigation with the contrast medium was done 2 mm shorter than working length and activated in all groups. Irrigant penetration depth was measured using digital radiography and evaluated on SIDEXIS-XG software. Irrigant depth measurements were calculated and statistically analyzed. Results Needle irrigation group showed the least penetration depth with statistically significant difference compared to the other two groups ( P < 0.001). Xp-endo finisher file and EDDY groups had higher irrigant penetration depth with statistically insignificant difference compared to each other. Conclusions Xp-endo Finisher and EDDY system promote irrigant penetration depth into the apical third of root canals than needle irrigation.