Scanning electron microscopy evaluation of debris and smear layer generated by two instruments used in reciprocating motion WaveOne Gold® and Reciproc Blue®

The aim was to evaluate debris and smear layer at 1, 3 and 5 mm from the foramen of single‐file systems WaveOne Gold® and Reciproc Blue®. Thirty single‐rooted teeth were prepared using one of the following NiTi instruments WaveOne Gold® and Reciproc Blue®. Root canals were observed under a scanning electron microscope. The presence of debris and smear layer at the apical third of root canals was evaluated. Data were analysed by Friedman and Wilcoxon tests. WaveOne Gold® produced significantly less debris and smear layer compared to Reciproc Blue®. However, the mean amount of debris was significantly different within distances for WaveOne Gold®, while no difference were observed for Reciproc Blue. The mean amount of smear layer was not significantly different within distances with WaveOne Gold® and Reciproc Blue®. Both systems showed debris and smear layer in the apical third; nevertheless, WaveOne Gold® showed better results.