Pulp tissue dissolution in endodontics- A review

Abstract

Meticulous shaping and cleaning of the root canals is of utmost importance to the success of endodontic therapy. A combination of mechanical instrumentation with appropriate chemicals is conventionally used for thorough cleaning and disinfection of the complex root canal system. Ideally, an irrigant should be antimicrobial, biocompatible, dissolve pulp tissue, mechanically flush debris and help to remove smear layer. The capacity to dissolve pulp tissue, both vital and necrotic, is of paramount importance, as the solution can help clean areas of the root canal that are inaccessible to mechanical instrumentation. This paper reviews various irrigants with respect to their pulp dissolution capacity.