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Endodontics · single question

What is the primary reason sodium hypochlorite is used as a root canal irrigant?

  1. Its potent bactericidal/antimicrobial action (along with organic tissue dissolution)
  2. It permanently seals the canal
  3. It primarily provides analgesia
  4. It primarily whitens the tooth
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Correct answer: A. Its potent bactericidal/antimicrobial action (along with organic tissue dissolution)

Sodium hypochlorite is used during root canal therapy primarily for its strong bactericidal/antimicrobial action against the diverse microbial flora found in infected root canal systems, along with its ability to dissolve organic (pulpal/necrotic) tissue — both properties are central to effective canal disinfection.

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