Endodontic Irrigation ― Chemical Disinfection of the Root Canal System

This book reviews the available information on bacterial disinfection in endodontics, with emphasis on the chemical treatment of root canals based on current understanding of the process of irrigation. It describes recent advances in knowledge of the chemistry associated with irrigants and delivery systems, which is of vital importance given that chemical intervention is now considered one of the most important measures in eliminating planktonic microbes and biofilms from the infected tooth. Recommendations are made regarding concentrations, exposure times and optimal sequences. Possible complications related to the use of the different solutions are highlighted, with guidance on response. In addition, clinical protocols are suggested on the basis of both clinical experience and the results of past and ongoing research. Throughout, a practical, clinically oriented approach is adopted that will assist the practitioner in ensuring successful endodontic treatment.

Bettina Ruth Basrani is Associate Tenured Professor and Program Co-Director for the MSc in Endodontics at the Faculty of Dentistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada. Dr. Basrani graduated from the School of Dentistry, Buenos Aires, Argentina in 1989. She later gained a Diploma as a Specialist in Endodontics from the Argentinian Society of Endodontics and the Ministry of Public Health and Welfare and a PhD from Maimonides University, Faculty of Dentistry, Buenos Aires for a thesis on the effect of chlorhexidine gluconate in root canal disinfection. She joined the University of Toronto in 2004, gaining her Academic License from the Royal College of Dental Surgeons of Ontario in the same year and her Endodontic Specialty License in 2006. Dr. Basrani has completed many research projects. She has published more than 20 articles in refereed journals during the past 5 years and is editor of the book Endodontic Radiology, the second edition of which was published in 2012 (Wiley-Blackwell).