Effect of Smear Layer on Endodontic Outcome: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Patients requiring primary root canal treatment following the diagnosis of pulp necrosis in permanent mandibular first and second molars having radiographic evidence of periapical radiolucency (minimum size ≥ 2.0 × 2.0 mm) were included in the study. All patients were over 18 years of age and diagnosis of pulpal necrosis was confirmed by negative response to cold and electrical tests, and absence of bleeding on entering the pulp chamber. Patients with systemic illness, history of analgesic intake within past 7 days, antibiotics in the last 3months and patients who were pregnant were excluded from the study. Periodontally compromised teeth, previously accessed teeth, teeth that were not suitable for rubber dam isolation were also excluded from the study.

Subjects were allocated to one of the two study groups: smear layer positive group (only 2.5%NaOCl was used) - SP and smear layer negative group (17% EDTA+2.5%NaOCl was used) - SN. Using an equal proportion randomization allocation ratio, patients were assigned to the two groups using envelopes containing concealed assignment codes. It was ensured that neither the patient, nor the primary investigator was aware of the group till the time of final rinse.

After administration of local anesthesia, rubber dam isolation of the involved tooth was done. Caries was excavated and access cavity prepared using carbide burs in high speed handpiece with copious irrigation.Debridement of the pulp chamber was done and all canal orifices identified.Working length was obtained with the help of electronic apex locator and confirmed radiographically.Hand files number 10, 15 and 20 were used till working length (WL) to prepare a smooth reproducible glide path.Canal preparation was done with the help of rotary NiTi files. In both groups, 2.5% sodium hypochlorite was used as irrigant after each instrument. All the irrigation procedures were performed using a 27 gauge side vented needle. After root canal instrumentation, 17% Ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) solution was also used to remove smear layer in smear layer negative group, while teeth in smear layer positive group was simply rinsed with 2.5% sodium hypochlorite. In both the groups ultrasonic activation of irrigant was done. An inter-appointment dressing of calcium hydroxide was given. The access cavity was then restored with intermediate restorative material (Dental Products of India).

Patients were prescribed Ibuprofen 400mg with the instructions to take one tablet every 8 hours in the event of pain.Patients were asked to record the severity of pain using 10 cm VAS scale with 0 depicting no pain and 10 depicting maximum pain imaginable. Patients were asked to make a mark on the line that represented their level of perceived pain every 24hrs for 7 days following intervention.

One week later, patients returned with the completed questionnaires.