An overview of uses and effectiveness of intracanal medicaments in endodontics

Authors

  • Waleed K. Alshargawi Department of Endodontics, Al Thager Hospital, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
  • Wesam Y. Alibrahim West Riyadh Dental Center, Dental Medical Complex in West of Riyadh, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
  • Majed O. Bakkar Taif Specialized Dental Center, Ministry of Health, Taif, Saudi Arabia
  • Turki F. Almansour College of Dentistry, Najran University, Najran, Saudi Arabia
  • Albara M. Alshanbari Dental Department, Makkah Health Cluster, Mecca, Saudi Arabia
  • Hatem A. Alqarni College of Dentistry, Taif University, Taif, Saudi Arabia
  • Faisal M. Aljally College of Dentistry, Najran University, Najran, Saudi Arabia
  • Saleh I. Algzlan College of Dentistry, Vision Colleges, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
  • Nouran O. Jamal Department of Endodontics, 32 Dental Clinic, Mecca, Saudi Arabia
  • Reem S. Alqarni College of Dentistry, King Khalid University, Abha, Saudi Arabia
  • Hassan H. Almutarid College of Dentistry, Najran University, Najran, Saudi Arabia

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.18203/2394-6040.ijcmph20250064

Keywords:

Intracanal medicaments, Endodontic disinfection, Calcium hydroxide, Nanoparticle-based formulations, Regenerative endodontics

Abstract

Intracanal medicaments play a crucial role in endodontics by addressing microbial infections and facilitating the healing of periapical tissues. Their effectiveness lies in their ability to disinfect the root canal system, eliminate biofilms, neutralize bacterial endotoxins, and promote tissue repair. Calcium hydroxide, a widely used traditional medicament, demonstrates strong antimicrobial properties and creates an alkaline environment unfavorable for bacterial survival. However, its limitations against certain resistant pathogens and restricted penetration into dentinal tubules have driven the development of advanced alternatives. Emerging medicaments such as nanoparticle-based formulations and bioglass offer promising solutions by overcoming these limitations. Nanoparticles, with their ability to penetrate complex canal systems, deliver potent antimicrobial effects and enhance disinfection efficiency. Bioglass not only disrupts bacterial activity but also facilitates dentinal remineralization, making it particularly valuable in regenerative procedures. Hydrogels, designed for controlled and sustained drug release, improve the delivery of medicaments into anatomical complexities, enhancing their overall efficacy. Natural products like neem, propolis, and aloe vera are gaining attention for their biocompatibility and antimicrobial capabilities, providing effective alternatives for patients’ sensitive to synthetic agents. These formulations also address concerns about resistance and toxicity associated with conventional options. Advances in delivery systems, including sonic and ultrasonic activation, further amplify the efficacy of both traditional and emerging medicaments. Comparative analyses of these approaches highlight the advantages of integrating innovative technologies with proven methods, enabling clinicians to address complex infections and improve long-term treatment outcomes. The evolving landscape of intracanal medicaments continues to push the boundaries of what can be achieved in endodontics, promising enhanced patient care through effective disinfection and tissue healing.

 

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Published

2025-01-24

How to Cite

Alshargawi, W. K., Alibrahim, W. Y., Bakkar, M. O., Almansour, T. F., Alshanbari, A. M., Alqarni, H. A., Aljally, F. M., Algzlan, S. I., Jamal, N. O., Alqarni, R. S., & Almutarid, H. H. (2025). An overview of uses and effectiveness of intracanal medicaments in endodontics. International Journal Of Community Medicine And Public Health, 12(2), 1090–1094. https://doi.org/10.18203/2394-6040.ijcmph20250064

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Review Articles