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Published on: October 11, 2024
Endodontic surgery failure: SEM analysis of root-end filling
Silvio Taschieri1, Raphael Bettach, Alessandra Lolato
1Department of Health Technologies, IRCCS Galeazzi Orthopaedic Institute, University of Milan, Milan, Italy.
Journal of Oral Science
|October 1, 2011
Summary
Root-end filling quality was poor in teeth with persistent periapical lesions after endodontic surgery. Most cases showed inadequate or imperfect seals, potentially allowing bacterial leakage and inflammation.
Area of Science:
- Endodontics
- Oral Surgery
- Microscopy
Background:
- Persistent periapical lesions after endodontic surgery indicate treatment failure.
- Root-end filling quality is crucial for long-term treatment success.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the quality of root-end fillings in teeth with persistent periapical lesions post-endodontic surgery.
Main Methods:
- Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was used to examine the root-ends of ten extracted teeth.
- Root-end filling-cavity margin interfaces were classified as ideal, imperfect, or inadequate based on defect extent.
Main Results:
- Four cases (40%) exhibited imperfect root-end filling margins.
- Six cases (60%) showed inadequate root-end filling margins, with continuous disruption >30% of the interface.
Conclusions:
- A significant proportion of root-end fillings in teeth with persistent periapical lesions are defective.
- Inadequate apical sealing may contribute to persistent inflammation by allowing bacterial leakage.
