Histological analysis of cleaning capacity in apical third of flattened root canals with passive ultrasonic irrigation

ABSTRACT

Introduction and Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate histologically the passive use of ultrasound for cleaning the apical portion of flattened root canal systems. Material and methods: The sample consisted of 20 extracted human mandibular incisors which were divided into two groups after being prepared with the rotary system Hero 642 up to size #45 surgical diameter Group A - final irrigation with 4 ml of 2.5% sodium hypochlorite by the conventional technique using a syringe, and Group B - final irrigation with 4 ml of 2.5%, sodium hypochlorite divided into 1 ml amounts which were activated with the passive use of ultrasound for 15 seconds each time, generating a total activation period of 1 minute. Following, the teeth were subjected to morphometric analysis to evaluate the cleaning ability promoted in both groups. Results and Conclusion: Statistical analysis showed significant difference (p < 0.05) between the groups, with the passive ultrasonic irrigation resulting in cleaner canals.