Scanning electron microscopy evaluation of chitosan and carboxymethyl chitosan as retrograde smear layer removing agents

Abstract

BACKGROUND: The smear layer acts as a physical barrier against penetration of root canal medicaments and sealers, thus compromising the seal leading to microleakage. OBJECTIVES: This study was conducted to evaluate the efficacy of 17% ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA), 0.2% chitosan solution, and 0.2% carboxymethyl chitosan (CMC) used as smear layer removing agents in retrograde root canal preparation using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). MATERIALS AND METHODOLOGY: . RESULTS: Group I (saline) was least efficient in the removal of the smear layer. Group II (17% EDTA), Group III (0.2% Chitosan), and Group IV (0.2% CMC) efficiently removed the smear layer from the retrograde cavity with mean scores 1.35, 1.60, and 1.35, respectively. Statistically, no significant difference found in Group II (17% EDTA), Group III (0.2% Chitosan), and Group IV (0.2% CMC). CONCLUSIONS: About 0.2% CMC and 0.2% chitosan can be better alternatives to 17% EDTA for smear layer removal due to their biological advantages.