Mechanisms of antimicrobial activity of calcium hydroxide: a critical review

The primary function of calcium hydroxide as a routine intracanal medicamen t is to provide antimicrobial activity. However, the mechanisms of antimicr obial activity of calcium hydroxide are not well known. Physicochemical pro perties of this substance may limit its effectiveness in disinfecting the e ntire root canal system. In addition, calcium hydroxide is not effective ag ainst all bacterial species found in root canal infections. Association wit h other medicaments may enhance the efficacy of the intracanal medication i n eliminating residual bacteria in the root canal system.