Research Summary
Root canal surgery: Ensuring a cleaner finish
Using citric acid in combination with ultrasonic rinsing helps flush out root canals prior to completing treatment. Calcium hydroxide, Ca(OH)2, is used to eliminate microbes from root canals during treatment. However, residual Ca(OH)2 left behind once treatment is complete can reduce the effectiveness of sealants and weaken dentin bonds. Hui Yang and Tao Hu at Sichuan University in Chengdu, China, and co- trialled novel ways of removing Ca(OH)2 from curved root canal systems. Using synthetic root canal models and extracted human teeth, the team used different rinsing chemicals and techniques to clean root canals of different shapes. They found that citric acid was most effective, particularly when combined with ultrasonic rinsing. This technique agitated and loosened residues left in the root canal wall, allowing for a cleaner finish.