Online published on 1 May, 2012.
To evaluate the presence or absence of debris and smear layer after preparation of the canal with Step back technique, Ultrasonic technique and Passive Step back technique.
A total of 35 recently extracted teeth were divided into three groups of 11 teeth each and 2 teeth were used as control. Biomechanica! preparation in Group A was done using step back technique, in GROUP B using ultrasonic technique and in Group C it was accomplished by Passive step back ultrasonic technique. The samples were then examined under Scanning Electron microscope (SEM). The photomicrographs were scored for the superficial debris and the smear layer and statistical analysis was performed.
There is a statistically significant difference between the smear layer and debris scores of step back and the ultrasonic technique and also between the step back and the passive step back technique. The passive step back technique is an efficient method for preparing the root canal.
Ultrasonic instrumentation is a beneficial adjunct to conventional techniques of debridement and disinfection of root canal spaces.
Step back technique, Ultrasonic, Passive step back technique, SEM
