ENDODONTIC MICROTARGETING-AN INNOVATIVE INTELLIGENT MINIMALLY INVASIVE APPROACH FOR CANAL DISINFECTION

Mohammed TURKY, Paul M. H. DUMMER

European Endodontic Journal - 2026;11(1):37-39

Department of Endodontics, Minia University Faculty of Dentistry, Minia, Egypt

 

This letter introduces a new concept in root canal disinfection that aligns with the shift toward minimally invasive and biologically informed practice in root canal treatment: endodontic microtargeting. This proposal advocates for the development and implementation of precision-guided, intelligent systems specifically designed to target anatomically complex root canal systems with customized antimicrobial delivery devices. This approach transcends traditional bulk irrigation techniques and instrument-centric cleaning methods that may not effectively access intricate canal systems. Smart delivery systems integrate targeted carrier mechanisms, active navigation, stimuli-responsive release, and closed-loop sensing with feedback to deliver therapeutic agents with precision.