Gingival and bone necrosis caused by accidental sodium hypochlorite injection instead of anaesthetic solution.

AIM: To report clinical complications (pain, necrotic gingival tissue and bone sequestration) resulting from accidental injection of sodium hypochlorite.

SUMMARY: Root canal treatment is a routine clinical procedure with few reported complications. Sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl) is commonly used as an irrigant during the procedure because of its tissue-dissolving, antibacterial and lubricating properties. This paper presents a case in which accidental injection of sodium hypochlorite into the lingual gingiva of a female patient caused gingival and bone necrosis. Surgical intervention was required.

KEY LEARNING POINTS: *Sodium hypochlorite is dangerous if injected into the tissues. *The presentation of sodium hypochlorite in glass, anaesthetic type cartridges is potentially dangerous, and should be condemned. *All healthcare workers should check carefully the contents of any syringe before injecting into patients.