A Review on Root Canal Irrigation Solutions in Endodontics

Introduction: This paper aims to review the different characteristics of root canal irrigants including sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl), chlorhexidine (CHX), hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), iodine potassium iodide (IKI), antibiotic-based irrigants, photo-activated disinfection, electrochemically activated water, and QMix. The literature on root canal irrigation solutions in the context of endodontics up to June 2020 was reviewed using PubMed and MEDLINE. NaOCl was identified as the most likely effective irrigation solution that could be used for endodontics. Its antimicrobial activity is at least comparable or even greater than that of other common irrigants. Tetraclean was also proposed to be more effective than CHX against endodontic microorganisms. In addition, Hypoclean was suggested as the most potent and effective irrigant against Candida albicans. Similarly, IKI was introduced as a successful irrigant in killing Candida albicans and Enterococcus faecalis. MTAD is also known to be effective in smear layer removal as well as against the growth of Enterococcus faecalis. EDTA is also considered to have limited antimicrobial activity.