An in vivo evaluation of the penetration of an irrigating solution in root canals

Abstract

Nineteen roots with vital pulps and 19 roots with necrotic pulp tissue were hiomechanically cleansed according to a standardized procedure of instrumentation. A radiopaque material was used as an irrigant to delineate apical penetration in vivo. Extrusion of the irrigant occurred in cases with vital pulps and in cases with necrotic pulp tissue. The solution was confined to the instrumented space in vital cases, whereas the irrigating agent occupied random dimensions of the periapical lesions in some teeth with necrotic pulp tissue. The solution reached the apex of the preparation sooner in teeth with necrotic pulps than in teeth with vital pulps.