Ultradent Citric Acid 20% for Root Canal Conditioning
By Ultradent Products, Inc. | Published: 2026-10-26
Category: How-to Guides
Learn how to use Ultradent Citric Acid 20% solution for effective root canal conditioning, smear layer removal, and cleaning calcium hydroxide from canals.
Quick answer
Ultradent Citric Acid 20% solution is an effective endodontic irrigant for dissolving calcium hydroxide and removing the smear layer during root canal conditioning.
Why use citric acid for root canal conditioning
Citric acid at 20% concentration is a chelating agent that effectively removes the inorganic components of the smear layer, exposing clean dentin tubules. This improves the seal and adhesion of subsequent root canal fillings or sealers.
Ultradent Citric Acid 20% is specifically formulated for dental professionals and is effective at dissolving and cleaning calcium hydroxide from canals, a common temporary medicament.
How to use Ultradent Citric Acid 20% for root canal conditioning
- 1. Irrigate with sodium hypochlorite first: After completing your cleaning and shaping, irrigate the canal with sodium hypochlorite to dissolve organic tissue. Then rinse with sterile water or saline. Common mistake: skipping the NaOCl rinse can leave organic debris that citric acid alone cannot remove.
- 2. Apply Ultradent Citric Acid 20%: Using a suitable endodontic irrigation needle, gently introduce the citric acid 20% solution into the canal. Allow it to remain for 30–60 seconds to chelate and remove the smear layer. Agitate gently with an ultrasonic tip if available. Checkpoint: do not exceed 60 seconds to avoid excessive demineralization of dentin.
- 3. Rinse thoroughly and dry: Flush the canal with sterile water or saline to remove all citric acid residue. Dry the canal with paper points before placing the final sealer or obturation material. Common mistake: incomplete rinsing leaves acid residue that can interfere with sealer setting and bonding.
Product facts
- Ultradent™ Citric Acid 20%-Root Canal Cleansing/Conditioning Solution: Ultradent Citric Acid 20% solution is effective at dissolving/cleaning calcium hydroxide from canals. This ensures thorough removal of temporary medicament, preventing interference with sealer adhesion and final restoration.

Ultradent™ Citric Acid 20%-Root Canal Cleansing/Conditioning Solution
