Early Application of Er,Cr:YSGG Laser in Endodontics: Effects on Patency Achievement and Debris Reduction

A crown-down instrumentation approach has been recommended to prevent debris extrusion from infected root canals. The aim of this study was to investigate the impact of a crown-down irrigation approach involving application of an early step of laser-activated irrigation (LAI) before establishing initial patency or completing instrumentation. Additionally, the impact of early LAI on time required to achieve initial patency and canal cleanliness was investigated and compared to conventional needle irrigation (CNI). One hundred twenty roots of extracted permanent maxillary molars were treated with a LAI or CNI irrigation protocol using 3