Final rinse protocol - The Time Factor
Fig. 1

The only part of the cleaning process that we can try to protocol is the Final Rinse (FR).It starts exactly when final shaping is performed and continues until we decide to tridimensionally fill the Root Canal System. During FR, as endodontist, I dedicate my full attention to the cleaning procedure and my choice is the activation of NaOCl at 6% with Utrasounds and also EDTA during last step.

Fig. 2

But how much irrigant is required? I usually consider 10ml of NaOCl and 2ml of EDTA for each canal, extruded with a speed of 2ml/min.It means an evacuation performed drop by drop using side vent needle with a size between 27 and 30 G.

Fig. 3

Let's now try to define a clinical protocol. It is dedicated to single, double and pluri-radiculated teeth. 10 minutes might seem like a short time, but if it is completely dedicated to the disinfection, it is an incredible long time and you can feel while you check with your watch the extrusion of a liquid for a minute. The same if you continuously activate liquids with an Ultrasonic tip.

Final rinse protocol - The Time Factor
Fig. 4

12 minutes are instead necessary for an upper first premolar, because more time and liquids are required in this case.

Fig. 5

15 minutes for a molar, but in this case it is better if each canal is rinsed for 20 seconds tops:after that it is better jump in to the others and do the same.

Conclusions

After that Final Rinse Protocol is performed, we are finally ready to tridimensionally fill the RC system.
We, from Styleitaliano Endodontics, are always craving for protocols so feel free to tell us yours in the comments!

Bibliography

Paragliola R, Franco V, Fabiani C, Mazzoni A, Nato F, Tay FR, Breschi L, Grandini S. Final Rinse Optimization: Influence of Different Agitation Protocols
Smear Layer Mello I, Kammerer BA, Yoshimoto D, Skelton Macedo MC, Antoniazzi JH. Influence of Final Rinse Technique on Ability of Ethylenediaminetetraacetic Acid of Removing