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The purpose of the study presented here was to compare the influence of root canal taper on the efficacy of irrigants and chelating agents in smear layer removal. Eighty mesial roots of molar teeth were selected and prepared with rotary instruments. In group A, file 30/0.02 and in group B, file 30/0.4 were placed at working length and the smear layer was removed. In groups C and D, root canal preparation was the same as in groups A and B, respectively, except that the smear layer was not removed. The amount of the smear layer was quantified using a scanning electron microscope. Greater smear layer was detected in the apical portion of each group, whereas no significant difference was detected between groups in other portions. No statistical difference was found between canals with different tapers.

The goal of root canal therapy is to clean and disinfect the root canal system. 1 Many studies demonstrate that regardless of the mechanical instruments and techniques, irrigation solutions are required to improve lubrication and canal cleaning. 2, 3 Mechanical instrumentation of root canals produces a smear layer that covers root canal walls and consists of inorganic debris and organic constituents. 4 This layer may prevent penetration of