Maleic acid as a root canal irrigant- a scoping review.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Root canal treatment (RCT) requires thorough removal of the smear layer to ensure proper sealing, reduce microbial contamination, and enhance treatment success. Chelating agents such as ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) are widely used, but they show limitations, especially in the apical third. Maleic acid (MA), a mild organic acid with low pH, has been proposed as a promising alternative due to its superior demineralising and adhesive-enhancing properties.

Aim

To evaluate the role of MA in root canal therapy, with emphasis on smear layer removal, antimicrobial efficacy, dentin-related effects, and interactions with dental materials.

Methods

The review followed PRISMA-ScR 2018 guidelines and Arksey and O'Malley's six-stage framework. A comprehensive se

SUBMITTER: Kapur T 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12801934 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature