Current endodontic materials include those that have been thoroughly tested by scientific investigation, clinical usage, and time, as well as others that are the result of new knowledge in the field of dental materials. Article sections are devoted to obturation materials, sealers, irrigation materials, root-end filling materials, perforation repair materials and intracanal medicaments. Knowing the particular qualities of materials can aid the clinician in choosing those that are appropriate for a given situation. Properties, components, and rationale for the materials' use are presented to aid the clinician in choosing materials for a particular need.

When treating endodontic cases, clinicians need access to a variety of materials. There are different materials for each step of the treatment process, from cleaning a canal, to obturating a canal to sealing a canal once the procedure is complete. Selecting the right materials will help ensure a pleasant experience for the patient as well as a more predictable, successful outcome. Core build-up materials, for example, build up the core of the unhealthy tooth to allow for better crown retention, reduced sensitivity and increased strength. Endodontic intracanal lubricants help remove calcifications and the smear layer as well as lubricate the canal to facilitate canal shaping for obturation. Post systems enable clinicians to place restorations that wouldn’t have been possible otherwise because of inadequate tooth structure.