ABSTRACT
This study aimed to compare the efficacy of MTAD, Glyde and EDTA in removing the post-preparation smear layer and debris produced in apical third of curved molar root canals.Forty extracted human maxillary first molars with curved mesiobuccal canals [30degree sign-35degree sign], similar root lengths and morphologies were divided into 3 experimental groups [n=12] and one control group [n=4]. Canals were prepared by RaCe rotary files and were treated with the following materials between each two files: Group A [control group]; 5 mL of distilled water, Group B; 1 mL of 17% ethylenediamine tetra-acetic acid [EDTA] for 1 min, Group C; BioPure trade mark sign MTAD [according to the manufacturer's instruction; 5mL for 5 min], and Group D; Glyde File Prep alternated with sodium hypochlorite [NaOCl] between each two files. Debridement of the apical third was evaluated using scanning electron microscope [SEM] [_5000]. The data were statistically analyzed using the Kruskal-Wallis and Mann-Whitney U tests [P < 0.05].Statistical analysis of the data showed that MTAD and 17% EDTA were effective in removing smear layer and debris from the apical thirds. MTAD was more effective than EDTA in smear layer removal. Glyde did not adequately debride curved root canals of molar teeth. MTAD and 17% EDTA were effective in debriding the apical third of curved molar root canals during endodontic treatment, whereas Glyde File Prep does not provide adequate debridement