Evaluation of Multiple Final Irrigantion Activation Methods on Smear Layer Removal -A SEM Study

ABSTRACT Introduction and Objective: This in vitro investigation aimed to evaluate and compare the effectiveness of four irrigation activation techniques—EndoVac, EDDY tip, XP-Endo Finisher, and traditional syringe irrigation—in removing the smear layer from the palatal roots of extracted maxillary first molars. The evaluation was performed at coronal, middle, and apical thirds using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Materials and Methods: Sixty freshly extracted maxillary first molars with intact palatal roots were selected and randomly distributed into four groups (n=15) according to the final irrigation method. Root canals were prepared using EDGEENDO X3 rotary system and examined under SEM. Data were analyzed using Kruskal-Wallis and Mann-Whitney U tests (p ≤ 0.05). Results and Conclusion: While none of the techniques eliminated the smear layer entirely, EndoVac, EDDY, and XP-Endo Finisher were significantly more effective than conventional needle irrigation at the apical third. No significant differences were observed at middle and coronal levels.