Comparison of the efficiency of different irrigation activation methods on biofilm removal in lateral canals

Introduction: This study aimed to compare the biofilm dissolving capacity of different irrigation techniques in resin blocks with lateral canals manufactured with 3D printers. Gaining more knowledge about the importance and effectiveness of irrigation techniques in endodontic treatment could aid in the development of more effective and successful clinical applications in this field. Materials and Methods: In the study, SAF, Endoactivator, ultrasonic irrigation and intracanal heating methods were applied to dissolve the biofilm in the upper and lower lateral canals of 75 resin blocks. Hydrogel was used to mimic the biofilm. After the hydrogel was placed in the upper and lower lateral canals of the resin blocks, each irrigation activation method was applied. The amount of hydrogel removed was measured by weighing the blocks before and after the treatment and visually scoring. Results: The obtained data revealed significant differences in the hydrogel dissolution capacity among different irrigation techniques used. The SAF group showed the highest hydrogel scores compared to other groups. Compared to the control group, all irrigation techniques showed a significantly higher capacity to dissolve hydrogel, although the hydrogel dissolution capacity of the Endoactivator group remained lower compared to other techniques. Conclusion: Different irrigation techniques play a vital role in endodontic treatment, and there are differences in the capacity to dissolve hydrogel among the techniques. This study aimed to contribute to a better understanding of these differences. Keywords: Biyofilm mimicking, Endoactivator, Hydrogel, Self Adjustinf File, Ultrasonic system