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Influence of a passive sonic irrigation system on the elimination of bacteria from root canal systems: a clinical
S Kirk Huffaker1, Kamran Safavi, Larz S W Spangberg
1Division of Endodontology, University of Connecticut Health Center, Farmington, Connecticut 06030-1715, USA.
Introduction:
The present investigation evaluated the ability of a new passive sonic irrigation (sonic group) system (EndoActivator) to eliminate cultivable bacteria from root canals in vivo and compared it with that of standard syringe irrigation (control group).
Methods:
Data were obtained by using bacteriologic sampling of root canals treated by endodontic residents. Sampling results from 1 session of treatment were then compared with results obtained after intervisit calcium hydroxide disinfection and a second session of treatment.
Results:
There was no significant difference in the ability of sonic group and control group to eliminate cultivable bacteria from root canals (P > .05). A second session and intervisit calcium hydroxide disinfection were able to eliminate cultivable bacteria from significantly more teeth than a single session of treatment (P < .05).
Conclusions:
These in vivo results strengthen the case for a multi-visit approach to the treatment of apical periodontitis.
