What is the primary purpose of a final rinse with 17% EDTA during root canal irrigation?

  • Correct answer

    To remove the inorganic component of the smear layer

  • To dissolve remaining necrotic pulp tissue

  • To neutralize residual sodium hypochlorite

  • To provide substantive antimicrobial activity

This question is one of 15 in AFK practice: Endodontics. Test yourself on all of them.

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Explanations

  • EDTA is a chelator that removes the mineralized (inorganic) part of the smear layer, opening dentinal tubules. It has little tissue-dissolving ability, which is why it is used together with sodium hypochlorite.

    Source: Torabinejad, Fouad and Shabahang, Endodontics: Principles and Practice — oneguy

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