Tissue targets for damage

The wide variety of endodontic materials that are used in the various phases of the endodontic treatment can potentially be damaging to the vital tissues of the tooth and its environment. In the root canal, the possible damages are usually limited or even desired (necrosis of pulp tissue caused by calcium hydroxide, e.g.). However, if released or pressed into the periapical area, many of the endodontics medicaments and chemicals can cause local irritation, mild or severe pain, and (usually) limited necrosis. Some chemicals cause severe long lasting pain, whereas necrosis of the inferior alveolar nerve may occur if materials are introduced into the nerve canal