Introduction: Effective root canal treatment requires complete disinfection of the root canal system, which is largely achieved through the use of chemical irrigants and adjunctive techniques. This study aimed to evaluate the practice of general dental practitioners in Khorramabad, Iran, regarding their use of chemical irrigants and adjunctive techniques during endodontic treatment.
Materials and Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional survey was conducted on 300 general dentists in Khorramabad from January to December 2024. Data were collected using a validated and reliable questionnaire (content validity ratio [CVR]=0.88, content validity index [CVI]=0.91, intraclass correlation coefficient [ICC]=0.95, and Cronbach’s α=0.83) which assessed demographic, professional characteristics, choice of chemical irrigants, irrigation techniques, and adjunctive methods. As this was a descriptive survey, no hypothesis testing was performed; results are reported as frequencies and percentages only.
Results: Sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl) was the most commonly used irrigant (54%), predominantly at 0.5% concentration (66% of all respondents). Chlorhexidine (CHX) was used by only 19.3% of participants. Most dentists used 27- or 30-gauge needles, with irrigation performed 3-4 mm from the apex and for 30 seconds to 1 minute per canal. Approximately 60% of participants used irrigation adjuncts, primarily manual activation, while only 11% targeted smear layer removal. Antibacterial and tissue-dissolving properties were the primary reasons for irrigant selection.
Conclusions: The findings highlight the need for improved education on evidence-based irrigation practices, particularly regarding the optimal concentration of NaOCl, smear layer removal, and the effective use of adjunctive activation systems.
Type of Study:
Original article |
Subject:
So on Received: 2025/08/29 | Accepted: 2025/10/26 | Published: 2025/09/15