EDTA
Pronunciation: E-D-T-A (spell out)
Also written as: EDTA — Ethylenediaminetetraacetic Acid
Ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid; a chelating irrigant used in endodontics to remove the inorganic component of the smear layer and aid canal instrumentation.
Full Definition
EDTA (ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid) is a polyaminocarboxylic acid used as a chelating agent in root canal therapy. By binding calcium ions in dentine, it softens the canal walls, facilitating instrumentation in calcified or narrow canals, and removes the mineral phase of the smear layer when used after NaOCl irrigation. It is typically applied as a 17% aqueous solution. In clinical records, EDTA refers specifically to its endodontic irrigant role; editors should not confuse this with its broader pharmacological uses (e.g., chelation therapy for heavy metal poisoning). The acronym should be expanded on first use in formal manuscripts.
Usage
Usage note: Expand on first use; specify concentration (usually 17%) when mentioned in protocols.
In Context
- "A final flush of 17% EDTA was applied for one minute to ensure complete smear layer removal." — Endodontic case report
- "The author used 'EDTA' without expansion on first mention — this must be corrected per the journal's abbreviation policy." — Copy-editing note for dental manuscript