Necrosis of the gingiva caused by calcium hydroxide: a case report

The present case demonstrates the possible detrimental effect of an overextension of a calcium hydroxide intracanal dressing into the periradicular and soft tissue after iatrogenic buccal root perforation of a maxillary central incisor. At first this perforation was not recognized by the dentist, which resulted in the introduction of a large amount of non-setting calcium hydroxide paste under the gingival tissues through a dehiscence on the buccal side of the root. This report describes the consequences and management of the necrosis of the buccal gingiva and mucosa, and the subsequent treatment and follow-up of the root perforation.