Removal of Debris and Smear Layer in Curved Root Canals Using the SAF

Abstract

Introduction: Debridement during root canal treatment is mandatory and it is provided by means of chemomechanical instrumentation and
irrigation methods. This article analysis the debridement capacity of a novel system, SAF and its special irrigation device when used with
different operation times in curved root canals.

Methods: 30 mesiobuccal root canals of maxillary molars were instrumented using SAF. Teeth were divided into three groups. In Group 1, 10 new SAF files were used for operation for 4 minutes. In Group 2, the 4-min previously used SAF files were operated in the
same manner. In Group 3, the 8-min previously used SAF files were operated. During SAF operation 2.6 % NaOCl and 17 % EDTA were
used alternately in all groups. Debris and smear layer removal were evaluated for the apical thirds under scanning electron microscope.

Results: Non-used, 4-min preused, and 8-min preused SAF efficiently removed debris and smear layer in the apical thirds. There
were no significant difference among the groups in terms of debridement.

Conclusions: When SAF is operated in curved root canals with continous flow of irrigation it results in debris and smear-free canal walls in the critical apical thirds within 12 minutes.

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