Microbiological evaluation of clindamycin as a root canal dressing in teeth with apical periodontitis

The present investigation was designed to study the effect of clindamycin on root canal infection when placed as an intracanal dressing. Twenty-five teeth with necrotic pulps and periapical radiolucencies were included. Following initial bacteriological sampling and routine instrumentation, clindamycin powder mixed to a paste with saline was applied for 14 days. The presence or absence of bacteria was determined in samples taken immediately after removal of the dressing, and after a period of 7 days during which the canals were filled with sampling fluid. Bacteria were recovered from four and six teeth respectively. The results indicated that clindamycin offered no advantage over conventional root canal dressings, such as calcium hydroxide, and it is therefore not recommended for use in routine endodontic therapy.