canalpreparatie

Canalpreparatie is a phase of endodontic treatment in which the root canal system is cleaned, disinfected and shaped to receive root canal filling material. The term is Dutch; in English, canal preparation or canal shaping is commonly used. The aim is to remove infected or necrotic tissue, reduce the microbial load, and create a tapered, patent space that allows thorough obturation while preserving as much tooth structure as possible.

The process relies on instrumentation to enlarge and smooth the canal lumen and remove debris, supported by chemical disinfection. Historically performed with hand files, canal preparation increasingly uses nickel-titanium (NiTi) rotary or reciprocating instruments, which offer improved canal geometry and efficiency. Irrigation with antimicrobial solutions—most commonly sodium hypochlorite—and adjuncts such as ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) enhance disinfection and smear layer removal. Modern practice may involve ultrasonic or sonic activation to improve irrigant penetration and effectiveness.

Planning for canal preparation involves assessing the tooth’s anatomy with radiographs and, when needed, three-dimensional imaging. The preparation aims to maintain the natural canal curvature, avoid procedural errors such as ledging, transportation or perforation, and create sufficient space for effective obturation. Adequate canal preparation is central to the success of endodontic therapy and is integrated with careful obturation and restoration to seal the tooth structurally and biologically.