Most undesirable property of sodium hypochlorite

# Which of the following is the most UNDESIRABLE property of sodium hypochlorite?
A. Tendency to bleach tooth structure
B. Reaction with chelating agents
C. Smell
D. Corrosiveness to endodontic files
E. Toxicity to vital tissue

The correct answer is E. Toxicity to vital tissue.

Sodium hypochlorite in undiluted or
excessive amounts is toxic to vital tissues
and can cause periapical tissue damage
and pain.
Sodium hypochlorite is a good disinfectant
that is used in dentistry as an endodontic
canal irrigant at a diluted concentrations.
Sodium hypochlorite is used often used to
disinfect gutta percha points prior to
placement and obturation of the canal.