Degradation of a silver point in association with endodontic infection

This paper describes an unusual clinical report of degradation of an endodontic silver point within the root canal of a lower right first premolar. Its apical portion was found to be degrading and at one stage a small portion became separated from its main body and was displaced apically. The tooth, despite past apical surgery, displayed signs of endodontic failure. Conventional retreatment and removal of the silver point improved the endodontic problems associated with this tooth. The silver point was analysed using both scanning electron microscopy and x-ray microanalyses. These tests revealed that the silver point had deteriorated significantly with a surface coating of a silver-chloride salt. Microleakage with infection and galvanic reaction are possible hypotheses as to the reason for the degradation of the silver point. Although other reports have demonstrated corrosion of silver points, this method of presentation appears unique.