After an initial hype related to the purported improved mechanical root canal cleaning capacity of rotary nickel-titanium instruments compared to conventional counterparts, it has become clear that chemical treatment is the core issue in root canal debridement.
This lecture will cover technical, biological, and chemical aspects of root canal irrigation. The differences between primary root canal treatments and retreatments are explored in view of optimal disinfection of the root canal system. Ways of irrigant administration will be discussed.
Furthermore, the optimal choice of irrigants for a given clinical situation, i.e. filled root canal system versus initial root canal treatment in a tooth with apical periodontits, will be covered. Irrigant sequences will be proposed with respect to the chemical interactions of the involved substances.
