Irrigation of the Root Canal System

Variables when irrigating:

  1. extent of canal instrumentation (i.e. penetration of irrigant)
  2. quantity of irrigant (volume of solution)
  3. temperature of irrigant (inc temperature -- causes inc bactericidal effect)
  4. length of time irrigant is in contact with canal walls
  5. depth of penetration of irrigation needle depends on
    1. guage of needle
    2. size of canal
  6. surface tension of irrigating solution
  7. age of solution of irrigant

Properties of ideal irrigant:

  1. tissue solvent (tissue dissolution)
  2. low toxicity (non-irritating)
  3. low surface tension
  4. lubricant
  5. sterilization or disinfection (antibacterial action)
  6. removal of the smear layer?

As with instrumentation, to be effective an irrigant must be in direct contact with the area to be cleaned. Due to the irregularities of the root canal system, a totally effective irrigant has yet to be discovered.

Types of irrigants:

  1. Sodium hypochlorite (Chlorox), (5.25%, 2.6%, 1%, .5%)
  2. Normal saline
  3. Anesthetic solution
  4. Zephiran (quarternary ammonium compound)
  5. Water
  6. Hydrogen peroxide
  7. Sodium hypochlorite and hydrogen peroxide
  8. Glyoxide (urea peroxide)

All canals must be left dry before closing the tooth with a temporary filling.