<![CDATA[Smear layer and debris are major challenges in successful root canal treatment because they obstruct dentinal tubules and reduce penetration of irrigants and intracanal medicaments. Sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl) 5.25% is used; however, it has limited smear-layer removal and may induce cytotoxic effects on periapical tissues. Coconut shell liquid smoke (CS-LS) contains phenolic compounds, carbonyls, and organic acids with antibacterial and chelating properties, indicating potential as an irrigant. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of CS-LS gel in removing smear layer and debris in the apical third of the root canal. This experimental study employed a post-test-only control-group design. Twenty-four single-rooted premolars were randomly allocated into four groups (n=6): 5.25% NaOCl, saline solution, CS-LS gel, and 100% CS-LS. Root canal preparation was performed up to a #25 K-file, followed by irrigation according to the assigned treatment. Specimens were examined using scanning electron microscopy at 5000× magnification. Smear layer and debris were assessed using Hülsmann’s scoring system. Statistical analysis using the Kruskal–Wallis test showed significant differences among groups for smear layer and debris scores (p=0.001). The CS-LS gel and CS-LS demonstrated lower smear layer and debris scores (1.50 ± 0.548 and 2.00±0.632) (1.83±0.408; and 2.00±0.632) than 5.25% NaOCl (4.00 ± 0.632 and 4.50 ± 0.548) and saline (3.25 ± 0.957 and 3.50 ± 0.577). Mann–Whitney analysis showed significantly lower scores for CS-LS gel compared with NaOCl 5.25% and saline (p<0.05). CS-LS gel was effective in cleaning the smear layer and debris in the apical third of the root canal]]>
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