Some recent root canal filling materials are claimed to provide a hermetic seal of the root canal system due to their ability to adhesively bond to the root canal dentine. However, it is very difficult to achieve effective bonding in the environment of the root canal system. The purpose of the present review is to discuss the limitations and effects of different materials that might adversely affect the bonding of adhesives to root canal dentine. Keywords: bonding, endodontic treatment, irrigants, limitations, radicular dentine, smear layer