Drying the root canal after irrigation and prior to obturation is one step which is often neglected. This step is equally important unlike other steps in the process of root canal treatment. Presence of moisture makes it impossible to obtain a successful 3D seal as the presence of residual moisture in the root canal can hamper the primary bond between the canal walls, obturating material and the sealer penetration into the dentinal tubules. 

In clinical practice, a series of paper points are used to dry the canal. A few of the studies have concluded that paper points are not sufficient enough and other modes of canal drying methods is required.  Studies have shown that significantly high volume of obturation is achieved while using 95% ethanol, Canal clean and Endo-Aspirator in comparison to paper points. 

The use of ethanol enhances the drying process and is less time consuming and economical. Studies found that a final rinse with 95 percent ethyl alcohol increased sealer penetration and decreased leakage in permanent root canals. Endo-Aspirator system is a modification of EndoVac™, with an ultra-fine tip of 0.2 mm, and has good penetration into the canals for effective drying. It reduces the required amount of paper points upto 80 percent. It is an easy, disposal device which after connection to the suction device dries root canals.  Canal Clean is composed of isopropyl alcohol, acetone and ethyl acetate.It accelerates drying of the root canal before filling.  

Paper points 

• Easy to use and inexpensive 
• Cannot reach the apical end of the canal in long-curved roots 

95% Ethanol 

• Less time consuming and economical 
• Resorbing roots, potential effect on developing tooth bud 

Canal Clean 

• 70% isopropyl alcohol, acetone and water 
• 70% isopropyl alcohol increases bond strength, interfacial ultrastructure and tag penetration of sealers 

Endo- Aspirator Pro  

• Obturation volume significantly better when compared to that of paper points 

• Although its efficacy was shown to be lesser than alcohols, it does not have any potential side effects 

Endo- Aspirator Smart System 

• Uses Vaccum absorption technique 
• Compact and comfortable to use device 

Endo- Aspirator Smart System 

• Uses Vaccum absorption technique 
• Compact and comfortable to use device 

Luer Vacuum Adapter 

• Adapts to any chairside high volume evacuator unit to efficiently remove irrigants and debris 

Among the drying agents, according to a study, the volume of obturation is highest for 95% ethanol, followed by Canal Clean and Endo-Aspirator. A dry root canal system is a must for optimum and successful obturation. 

Article by Dr. Siri P. B.