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DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.21088/ijde.0974.6099.11218.1

Abstract

Background: Thorough irrigation of the root canal is necessary to disinfect microorganisms, removing smear layer portions (both organic and inorganic) of the root canal system and to flush out debris. there is no single ideal irrigation solution till date which can perform all the desired functions.Objectives: To study the pattern of irrigation practices during endodontic procedures among dental practitioners in Kurnool urban area, Andhra Pradesh. Materials and Methods: A hospital based cross sectional study was conducted for a period of six months from June 2016 to December 2016. 168 dental clinics consulted to participate in the study. Results: All the 168 practitioners were using saline as primary irrigant. Other irrgants used along with saline were NaOCl 78.6%, EDTA 56%, and Chlorhexidine28.76%. Only 7.1% were using sterile water along with saline as irrigating solution. The response to primary irrigant used majority 48.2% ( 81) were using saline followed by 46.4% (78) sodium hypochlorite. 52.9% (89) of the respondents were using sodium hypochlorite in the concentration of 2.6% to 4%. Similar proportion using chlorhexidine in the concentration of 2%.

Conclusion: This study concludes that most of the practitioners were using normal saline as primary irrigant and 26 gauge needle was the most preferred for irrigation. It clearly depicts that there is a need for updating of the knowledge among practitioners with regard to selection of primary irrigants so that the quality of endodontic care can be improved.

Corresponding Author : Krishnaveni Marella, Senior Lecturer, Department of Conservative Dentistry and Endodontics, KVG Dental College and Hospital, Kurunjibag, Sullia D.K, Karnataka 574327, India.