![]() ![]() The apical root canal poses a special challenge to irrigation as the balance between safety and effectiveness is particularly important in this area ( Fig. These areas contain tissue remnants and biofilms that only can be removed by chemical means using irrigation. 5 Also, large areas in the oval and flat canals may remain untouched despite careful instrumentation. A bigger challenge for irrigation may be the areas untouched by the files, such as fins, isthmuses and large lateral canals. 1, 2, 3, 4 However, smear layer removal can be accomplished relatively easily when correct protocols are followed. Much of the research on endodontic irrigation has focused on the effect of irrigation on the smear layer. Irrigation is also the only way to impact those areas of the root canal wall that are not touched by mechanical instrumentation. ![]() Irrigation is a key part of successful root canal treatment as it fulfils several important mechanical, chemical and (micro) biological functions. Different means of delivery are used for root canal irrigation, from traditional syringe-needle delivery to various machine-driven systems, including automatic pumps and sonic or ultrasonic energy. The apical root canal imposes a special challenge to irrigation as the balance between safety and effectiveness is particularly important in this area. Sterile water or saline may be used between these two main irrigants, however, they must not be the only solutions used. Ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) is needed as a final rinse to remove the smear layer. High concentration sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl) has a better effect than 1 and 2% solutions. ![]() Sodium hypochlorite is the main irrigating solution used to dissolve organic matter and kill microbes effectively. Irrigation is also the only way to impact those areas of the root canal wall not touched by mechanical instrumentation. It has several important functions, which may vary according to the irrigant used: it reduces friction between the instrument and dentine, improves the cutting effectiveness of the files, dissolves tissue, cools the file and tooth, and furthermore, it has a washing effect and an antimicrobial/antibiofilm effect. Irrigation is a key part of successful root canal treatment. ![]()
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