HOSA Dental Terminology Practice

Which chemical is known as the most common bio-mechanical cleaner for root canals?

1. Sodium hypochlorite

2. Chloroform

3. Hydrogen peroxide

4. Alcohol

The correct answer is: Sodium hypochlorite

Sodium hypochlorite is widely recognized as the most common bio-mechanical cleaner used in root canal procedures. Its effectiveness stems from its strong antibacterial properties, which help eliminate bacteria and organic tissue from the root canal system. Sodium hypochlorite also possesses a significant bleaching quality, which aids in discoloration reduction of the dentin, contributing to a cleaner environment during endodontic treatment. Other chemicals, while useful in specific contexts, do not match the wide-ranging efficacy of sodium hypochlorite for root canal cleaning. Chloroform is primarily utilized for the dissolution of gutta-percha but does not have the same level of antimicrobial action. Hydrogen peroxide has some cleaning properties but is less effective as a primary cleaning agent in root canal therapy. Alcohol can serve as a disinfectant but lacks the specific qualities necessary for cleaning root canals effectively. Thus, sodium hypochlorite remains the standard choice for bio-mechanical cleaning in dental practices.