Comparison of Diode Laser With Maleic Acid and Ethylenediaminetetraacetic Acid on Smear Layer Removal From Root Canals: A Scanning Electron Microscope Study

ABSTRACT

Background: Aim: To evaluate the effect of diode laser with maleic acid and ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) on the smear layer removal from root canals. Methods: A total of 160 mandibular premolars were decoronated to working the length of 12 mm and prepared with protaper gold rotary files up to size F3. Group 1 canals irrigated with 1 ml 17% EDTA followed by 3 ml of 3% NaOCl. Group 2 canals were initially irrigated with 0.8 ml of 17% EDTA the remaining 0.2 ml was used to fill the root canals, and diode laser application was done. Group 3 canals were irrigated with 1 ml of 7 % maleic acid followed by 3 ml of 3% NaOCl. Group 4 canals were irrigated with .8 ml of maleic acid and remaining .2 ml was used to fill canal and activated by diode laser followed by 3% NaOCl. Scanning electron microscope examination of canals was done for remaining smear layer at coronal middle and apical third levels. Results: Maleic acid with and without diode laser had the least smear layer scores. Conclusion: Diode laser with maleic acid performed significantly better than EDTA.