A composition for tissue degradation and removal and disinfection is provided for dental and medical applications. It can function as a single intra-canal irrigant that eradicates microorganisms as it facilitates the debridement of a root canal system. It contains one or more hydoxides, a thioglycolate compound, sodium hypochlorite, sodium chloride, sodium chlorate, oxygen, and water, such as lime water and purified water, The thioglycolate compound is capable of degrading a cell by disrupting disulfide bonds in its proteins. The sodium hypochlorite enhances its function. The composition may also incorporate mineral oil, urea, cetearyl alcohol, D&C yellow No. 8, chromium hydroxide, theobroma cocoa seed butter, iron oxides, fragrances, lanolin, and/or ceteareth-20. It is effective against Enterococcus faecalis.