Efficacy of Irrigant activation technique of Q-mix 2 in 1 in removing intracanal smear layer: An in-vitro scanning electron microscopic study

Context: The success of endodontic treatment depends upon through debridement of the root canal system. Q-mix is a novel irrigant which shows smear layer removal as well as antibacterial action. The irrigant can go 0.1 – 1mm beyond the tip of the needle which prevents apical penetration of the solution. The irrigant needs to be activated to allow penetration of the irrigant till the apical third of the root canals. Aim: To evaluate the smear layer removal efficacy of Q-mix 2 in 1 using different activation regimens. Settings and Design: An in vitro randomized control trial study. Methods and Material: 30 sound premolars were decoronated at cement enamel junction. Biomechanical preparation was done till size #F3. For final irrigation regimen teeth were randomly divided into 2 groups as Conventional Needle irrigation (CI), Mannual Dynamic activation technique (MDA). The teeth were then sectioned vertically and examined under scanning electron microscope for smear layer removal at coronal, middle and apical third. Statistical analysis: Kruskal-Wallis test was used for comparison across irrigation techniques. Pair wise comparison of ratings was performed using Wilcoxon rank sum test. Result: Manual Dynamic activation of the irrigant Q mix 2 in 1 significantly improved the smear layer removal ability as compared to Conventional irrigation technique. There was statistically significant difference at middle third between CI and MDA. Conclusion: MDA resulted in significantly less smear layer as compared to conventional needle irrigation group.