Smear layer management in endodontics: An update on commonly available materials

Longbottom, Edward, Mylonas, Petros, Ballal, N. Vasudev and Dutta, Arindam ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-4488-0831 2025. Smear layer management in endodontics: An update on commonly available materials. Dental Update 52 (5) , pp. 318-324. 10.12968/denu.2025.52.5.318 Item availability restricted.

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Abstract

The smear layer is a thin layer of tooth tissue, bacteria and infected dentine that is intimately attached to the wall of root canals. It is created during any instrumentation of the root canal and inhibits microbe removal from dentine tubules and intimate attachment of endodontic sealer, which necessitates its removal. A variety of materials for removal of the smear layer is available: this article discusses the different types and makes general recommendations on the treatment of the smear layer and the use of chelating agents in endodontic treatment. CPD/Clinical Relevance: Removal of the smear layer is necessary for thorough disinfection of the root canal system and for the predictable healing of apical periodontitis.

Item Type:	Article
Date Type:	Publication
Status:	Published
Schools:	Schools > Dentistry
Publisher:	MA Healthcare
ISSN:	0305-5000
Date of First Compliant Deposit:	19 June 2025
Date of Acceptance:	12 September 2024
Last Modified:	19 Jun 2025 14:15
URI:	https://orca.cardiff.ac.uk/id/eprint/178832

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