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120-Second Flow

Root Canal Treatment Steps

This flow organizes the clinical steps for quick decision-making. Content has been cross-checked against the AAE/ESE guideline framework and publication-supported irrigation data.

6-step clinical flowQuick review modeReferenced content

Last updated: February 12, 2026

6-Step Quick Flow

  1. 1Case evaluation and treatment plan
  2. 2Isolation and access cavity
  3. 3Working length verification + glide path
  4. 4Canal preparation and recapitulation
  5. 5Irrigation and canal cleanliness verification
  6. 6Obturation/restoration and follow-up plan

Referenced Step Breakdown

1

Start with evaluation

The ESE framework emphasizes history/case evaluation and ongoing reassessment throughout treatment as a fundamental safety step before finalizing the treatment plan. [Ref]

2

Maintain the isolation standard

Dental dam isolation is defined as the standard of care in nonsurgical endodontic treatment; without this step, contamination and safety risks increase. [Ref]

3

Build preparation on the glide path

AAE NiTi recommendations note that establishing a glide path before rotary instrumentation is key to reducing file stress and separation risk. [Ref] [Ref]

4

Treat irrigation as part of mechanical preparation

Review data and the ESE framework emphasize that effective irrigation is an indispensable component of chemomechanical debridement. [Ref] [Ref] [Ref]

5

Leave a follow-up plan after obturation

The AAE clinical guide and ESE text address treatment success not only at the time of the procedure but also through follow-up evaluations. [Ref] [Ref]

References

  1. AAE: Guide to Clinical Endodontics
  2. ESE Resources for Clinicians and S3 Clinical Practice Guideline Summary
  3. AAE Position Statement: Dental Dams (2024)
  4. Expert consensus on irrigation and intracanal medication in root canal therapy (2024)
  5. AAE Treatment Standards: Executive Summary (2019)

Disclaimer

Not to be used as sole source for clinical decisions.