Endodontic irrigation needle with apical plug and methods of use

Abstract

An endodontic irrigation needle includes a connection fitting, needle, and apical plug. The needle includes a proximal end joined to the connection fitting, is hollow and forms a conduit for irrigation fluid and a plurality of exit ports for discharging irrigation fluid. An apical plug is formed of a different material than the needle and is permanently bonded to the distal end of the needle. The apical plug may be formed of an elastomeric material such as rubber. The apical plug may be wedge-shaped and include two or more layer portions joined by one or more flexible connecting portions. The layer portions may include a wedge-shaped tip layer, a disc-shaped mid layer, and a tapered top layer. A method for endodontic irrigation includes abutting an apex opening of a root canal with the apical plug, and discharging irrigation fluid through the exit ports of the needle.