Accidental Extrusion of Sodium Hypochlorite during Endodontic Treatment in a Primary Tooth

Although sodium hypochlorite is the most frequently used canal irrigant during endodontic treatment, its complications are not as well recognized as its effectiveness. This report demonstrates that sodium hypochlorite extrusion during endodontic treatment can cause severe complications. A 5-year-old boy experienced immediate pain and swelling, ecchymosis in surrounding tissues, and profuse bleeding from the root canal during endodontic treatment, because of accidental extrusion of sodium hypochlorite. The patient was hospitalized, and analgesics and antibiotics were prescribed. Accidental extrusion of the irrigating solution occurs more frequently in teeth with immature apices, root resorption, and apical perforations; therefore, caution is needed. When such complications occur, proper management and medications are needed.