The effectiveness of antibacterial measures is generally monitored (in clinical research studies) by microbiological root canal sampling (MRS), which is often used as a predictor for healing. This article addresses the question of the extent to which positive or negative cultures at time of obturation are able to predict treatment outcome.
Full Answer
Is the outcome of root canal treatment determinant of outcome?
Knowing the outcome of root canal treatment (RCT) is determinant to substantiate the clinical decision making process, especially when RCT is weighed against the extraction of natural teeth or replacement by prosthetic elements.
How dangerous is a root canal infection?
Infections of the root canal space and their sequelae can be extremely painful and potentially dangerous, yet they do not necessarily have to be. Chronic, asymptomatic inflammatory lesions around the apex of a tooth with a necrotic dental pulp or an insufficient root canal treatment can develop unnoticed by the patient, and remain so for years.
Do intracanal medicaments kill bacteria in root canals?
Intracanal medicaments have been thought an important step in killing the bacteria in root canals; however, in modern endodontics, shaping and cleaning has been emphasized greater importance than intracanal medicaments as a means of disinfecting root canals.
How is dentin treated prior to root canal obturation?
A suggested clinical protocol for treating dentin prior to root canal obturation consists of irrigation with NaOCl to dissolve the organic components, irrigation with EDTA to eliminate the smear layer, and irrigation with CHX to increase the antimicrobial spectrum of activity and impart substantivity [ 48 ].
What is the life of an endodontic tooth?
The life of an endodontically treated tooth depends on the accuracy of the diagnosis and planning, excellence of disinfection, instrumentation and filling procedures (antimicrobial strategies, root canal shaping and coronal and apical seal) and finally the rehabilitation management.
What is the logical action to reverse the existing disease?
The logical action is to reverse the existing disease, which requires intervention to neutralize the bacterial invasion and disrupt the bacterial biofilm within the complex anatomy. Success is more predictable when the immune host defenses are favorable.