Evaluation of debris and smear layer removal with XP-endo finisher: A scanning electron microscopic study

Context: The presence of smear layer and debris can prevent the irrigant and sealer from penetrating the dentinal tubules thereby compromising the seal of the root canal filling. Aim: This study aims to evaluate the efficacy of XP-endo Finisher with ProTaper Next and HyFlex in smear layer and debris removal. Materials and Methods: Thirty-two extracted mandibular premolar teeth were selected and sectioned at the cementoenamel junction. The roots were then randomly divided into 4 groups. In group 1 and 2, canals were instrumented with X2 ProTaper Next (25 0.06 taper). In group 3 and 4, canals were instrumented with HyFlex system (25 0.06 taper). The canals in group 2 and 4 were further finished with XP-endo Finisher. Irrigation was carried out using 3% sodium hypochlorite during instrumentation, and 17% ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid was used as the final rinse. The roots were then split longitudinally. The canal wall was observed under the scanning electron microscope in coronal, middle, and apical thirds at a magnification of ×400 and ×1000 for evaluation of debris and smear layer, respectively. Photomicrographs were taken, and qualitative assessment for debris and smear layer removal was done. Statistical Analysis Used: The results were analyzed using Kruskal–Wallis test and Mann–Whitney U-test. Results: Lower debris and smear layer scores were seen in canal thirds instrumented with ProTaper Next and XP-endo Finisher (P < 0.01). Conclusion: The use of XP-endo Finisher as an adjuvant during shaping and cleaning produced cleaner root canal walls.

Evaluation of bioflavonoids on the immediate and delayed microtensile bond strength of self-etch and total-etch adhesive systems to sound dentin

Aim: This study aims to evaluate the effect of two bioflavonoids (epigallocatechin-3-gallate [EGCG] and catechin) and a protein inhibitor (chlorhexidine [CHX]) on the immediate and delayed microtensile bond strength of self-etch and total-etch adhesive systems to sound dentin. Materials and Methods: The occlusal surfaces of 96 mandibular human third molar teeth specimens were ground after removal of the excess tissues, to expose the middle dentin. The dentin specimens were randomly allocated into four groups, each consisting of 24 teeth (n = 24) according to the application of the enzyme inhibitor. The adhesive system used in this study was Adper easy bond, a self-etch adhesive system, and Adper Single Bond 2, a total-etch adhesive system. Microtensile bond strength testing was conducted using thermocycler 2000, Heto-Holten A/S. Results: All the three enzyme inhibitors increase the bond strength values of the resin–dentin interphase when used during dentin bonding. The EGCG enzyme inhibitor has shown the highest immediate bond strength to dentin when used with both the adhesive systems.