Related Experiment Videos
Root canal calcification associated with prednisone therapy: a case report.
1Division of periodontics, Columbia University, School of Dental and Oral Surgery, New York, NY 10032.
Journal of the American Dental Association (1939)
|October 1, 1989
Summary
Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) patients on long-term prednisone may experience pulp and root canal calcification. Despite this, successful periodontitis treatment with stable bone levels was observed over 8 years.
Area of Science:
- Dentistry
- Rheumatology
- Endodontics
Background:
- Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is an autoimmune disease.
- Long-term corticosteroid therapy, like prednisone, is a common SLE treatment.
- Prednisone use can have various side effects, including potential effects on dental tissues.
Observation:
- An 8-year follow-up of an SLE patient treated with daily prednisone (up to 60 mg) was conducted.
- Radiographs revealed complete calcification of pulp chambers and root canals over the 8-year period.
- The patient also received successful treatment for adult-onset periodontitis (case type III).
Findings:
- Complete pulp chamber and root canal calcification occurred during 8 years of prednisone treatment.
- Periodontitis treatment was successful, with minimal attachment loss observed.
- Radiographic bone levels remained stable throughout the follow-up period.
Implications:
- Long-term prednisone use in SLE patients may lead to significant dental pulp and canal calcification.
- Dental health, including periodontitis management, can be maintained in SLE patients despite long-term corticosteroid treatment.
- This case highlights the importance of regular dental monitoring for SLE patients undergoing immunosuppressive therapy.