Knowledge and Practice of Endodontic Irrigants among Dentists in Benghazi City: A Questionnaire Study

Aim: This study aimed to evaluate the knowledge and practices related to endodontic irrigation among dentists practicing in Benghazi, Libya. Materials and Methods: A self-administered questionnaire was distributed to 200 dentists, with 176 responses collected (response rate: 88%). The questionnaire included 22 questions divided into three parts: demographic information, knowledge of irrigants, and details of irrigation practices during endodontic treatment. Data were analyzed using SPSS 16 software. Results: The majority of respondents were female (80.86%) and general dental practitioners (74.43%), with most working in the private sector (83.16%). Sodium hypochlorite was the most commonly used irrigant, with 86.36% of dentists using it as their primary choice. However, knowledge of the concentration of sodium hypochlorite used was limited, with 31.25% of respondents unsure. Antibacterial capability was ranked as the most important factor in the selection of an irrigant by 60.23% of respondents. Only 39.77% used the recommended volume of 5–10 mL per canal during irrigation. Conclusion: The study reveals varying levels of knowledge and inconsistent practices among dentists in Benghazi regarding endodontic irrigation. There is a need for enhanced education and training to ensure the effective and safe use of irrigants in endodontic procedures. Clinical Significance: Understanding the current trends in endodontic irrigation can help in identifying areas for improvement and ensuring better treatment outcomes in root canal procedures.