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Fusobacterium nucleatum in endodontic flare-ups
Luis Eduardo Chávez de Paz Villanueva1
1Department of Oral Microbiology, Faculty of Odontology, Göteborg University, Sweden. Luis.Chavez.de.Paz@odontologi.gu.se
Summary
Fusobacterium nucleatum was recovered from all teeth experiencing severe interappointment endodontic flare-ups. This bacterium was exclusively found in cases with significant pain, swelling, and exudate, suggesting its role in severe endodontic complications.
Area of Science:
- Endodontics
- Microbiology
Background:
- Interappointment flare-ups are common complications in endodontic therapy.
- Identifying etiological factors is crucial for managing these adverse events.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the presence of Fusobacterium nucleatum in root canals of teeth with interappointment flare-ups.
- To correlate F. nucleatum recovery with pain intensity and clinical signs.
Main Methods:
- Bacterial samples were collected from 28 patients experiencing flare-ups after root canal therapy initiation.
- Samples underwent semiquantitative assessment, correlated with Visual Analogue Scale pain scores, swelling, and exudate.
Main Results:
- Bacteria were recovered from all teeth; Gram-negative anaerobic coccoid rods were frequent.
- Fusobacterium nucleatum was detected in all teeth with severe pain (VAS ≥ 6), often accompanied by swelling and exudate.
- F. nucleatum was absent in teeth with lower pain scores.
Conclusions:
- Fusobacterium nucleatum is strongly associated with severe interappointment endodontic flare-ups.
- The presence of F. nucleatum may indicate a more severe inflammatory response and clinical presentation.