Cleaning Efficacy of the Self-Adjusting File Compared to Other Irrigant Activation Procedures: a Systematic Review

Objectives: The aim of this systematic review was to analyze studies that tested the efficacy Self-Adjusting File (SAF) in removing root canal detritus (smear layer, bacteria, intra-canal medication remnants) comparing it with the efficacy of other irrigation activation protocols.


Conventional needle irrigation is a less effective irrigation technique, but it is still unclear whether the self-adjusting file is able to guarantee greater debris removal than the ultrasonic technique. Laser activation has been proven to be more effective in the apical third than the self-adjusting file instrument.
Conclusion
Further in vivo investigations are needed in order to specify which final irrigation activation procedure could reach the maximum root canal debris reduction.
Methods: A systematic review was conducted using PubMed, additional studies were sought through hand searching of articles references .then 76 items were identified. Forty-eight articles were excluded based on title, abstract, and full text. Twenty-six studies were selected and submitted to quality assessment and data collection.
Results: Conventional needle irrigation is a less effective irrigation technique, but it is still unclear whether the self-adjusting file is able to guarantee greater debris removal than the ultrasonic technique. Laser activation has been proven to be more effective in the apical third than the self-adjusting file instrument
Conclusions: Further in vivo investigations are needed in order to specify which final irrigation activation procedure could reach the maximum root canal debris reduction.