Aim. To evaluate the cleaning ability of two single-file rotary systems- Self-Adjusting File (SAF) and Wave one (WO) systems in removing the smear layer using sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl) + ethylene diamine tetraacetic acid (EDTA) and NaOCl + Qmix as irrigants at apical one-third of the root canal. Methods. Forty extracted human mandibular premolars were selected and working length was determined. The canal was manually instrumented up to a number 25 size K-file. The roots were divided into the following groups with 10 samples each – Group 1 using SAF: Group 1a- 3% NaOCl + 17% EDTA, Group 1b- 3% NaOCl + Qmix. Group2 using WO: Group 2a- 3% NaOCl + 17% EDTA, Group 2b- 3% NaOCl + Qmix. In the SAF group, the irrigation was performed continuously using the special irrigation apparatus. In the WO group, syringe irrigation was done followed by final irrigant activation using passive ultrasonic irrigation (PUI). The roots were sectioned longitudinally and subjected to scanning electron microscopic (SEM) examination. The amount of smear layer was evaluated using a five score index at the apical third level. Statistical analysis was performed using the Chi-square test. Results. Group 1 (SAF) showed better canal cleanliness at apical third compared to Group 2 (WO) with both irrigant combinations and the results were statistically significant (p<0.05). 3% NaOCl + Qmix was equally as effective as 3% NaOCl + 17% EDTA in removing the smear layer with no significant difference between them. Conclusion. Within the limitation of this study, SAF in combination with 3% NaOCl + Qmix or 3% NaOCl + 17% EDTA should be used for removing smear layer in critical areas of the root canal.

Tooth size arch length discrepancies ideally require orthodontic treatment. But in certain exceptional cases like spacing due to aggressive periodontitis, pathological migration and non-compliance of the patient to undergo comprehensive orthodontic procedure, the scenario demands deviation from the routine treatment approaches and to customise the treatment plan based on the patient’s needs. This paper reports two cases: midline diastema in mandibular anteriors due to pathological migration managed with acrylic pontic retained by fiber reinforced composite restoration. The second case discusses anterior crowding managed conservatively by a fixed partial denture and the natural tooth pontic retained by fiber reinforced composite splint. KEYWORDS: Aesthetic transformation, cosmetic recontouring, fiber reinforced composite, natural tooth pontic.

Aim: This study aims to compare the cleaning efficacy of root canal walls using two rotary single file systems: self-adjusting file (SAF) and WaveOne (WO). Materials and Methods: Forty extracted human premolars with similar range of canal curvature were selected, decoronated, working length determined and roots were divided into two groups of 20 samples each: Group I - SAF and Group II - WO. All root canals were irrigated with 3% sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl) and 17% ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA). The roots were sectioned longitudinally and subjected to scanning electron microscopic examination. The amount of debris and smear layer was evaluated using five score index at coronal, middle and apical third levels. Statistical analysis was performed using the Chi-square test and significance was set at a P < 0.05. Results: Statistically significant difference was observed between the groups in cleaning the apical third. Group I (SAF) showed better canal cleanliness compared to Group II (WO) in the apical third. Conclusion: Within the limitations of this study, SAF in combination with 3% NaOCl and 17% EDTA irrigating solution had significantly better cleaning efficacy in the apical third of root canals when compared to WO rotary file system.

Though coronavirus disease COVID alarm is handled meticulously this pandemic situation has escalated the consumption of various non-woven single-use plastic-based polymers in the form of personal protective equipment masks and gloves etc. When these healthcare wastes are disposed the major negative aspects of secondary environment catastrophes associated with biomedical waste management BMW are emerging as a new issue to tackle. Environmental performance index is globally jeopardized due to this hazardous waste management. This review highlights the consequences of unplanned environmental disposal of medical waste the threats posed to our ecosystem by this unprecedented situation and the various eco-friendly options available to handle the current scenario.