Comparative study of debris and smear layer removal with EDTA and Er,Cr:YSGG laser

BACKGROUND: To evaluate in vitro, the ability in removing debris and Smear Layer of 17% EDTA and Er,Cr:YSGG laser. MATERIAL AND METHODS: 58 unirradicular teeth were instrumented with MTwo® and divided into 3 groups according to irrigation protocol: 17%EDTA, laser and a combination of 17%EDTA and laser. All samples were analyzed in the apical and middle third with Scanning Electron Microscope. The Chi-cuadrado and McNemar tests were used to determine the statistical analysis and data processing and analysis was performed with the statistical package StatGraphics Centurion XVI. RESULTS: Debris analysis showed statistical significant differences when compared EDTA vs laser and EDTA vs EDTA+laser in the middle third. The Smear Layer removal showed statistical significant differences in the middle third when compared EDTA vs laser and EDTA vs EDTA+laser. CONCLUSIONS: Laser showed a greater cleaning capacity than EDTA in the middle third; the cleanliness was even better when combined laser with EDTA, so the effect is accumulative. Key words:Root canal treatment, Smear Layer, Er,Cr:YSGG laser, debridement.