maleic acid

Maleic acid is an organic dicarboxylic acid used in endodontics as a chelating agent for the removal of the smear layer during root canal treatment. During the instrumentation of a root canal, a layer of organic and inorganic debris (the smear layer) is formed on the dentin walls, which can harbor microorganisms and obstruct the penetration of endodontic sealers into the dentinal tubules. Maleic acid, typically applied as a 7% solution, acts by binding to calcium ions in the hydroxyapatite of the dentin, leading to decalcification and effective cleaning of the canal system. Research conducted at the Dow University of Health Sciences has evaluated maleic acid's efficacy in comparison to other irrigants like EDTA and SmearOFF, specifically examining its impact on dentin erosion and the depth of sealer penetration in extracted human teeth.

Other names

(Z)-butenedioic acidcis-butenedioic acidmalenic acidMaleate