Abstract
Objectives: Various additional methods, such as photodynamic therapy (PDT), have been used to optimize the success of root canal treatment. This in vivo study aims to evaluate the effect of PDT with different photosensitizers on healing.
Materials and Methods: Seventy single canalled teeth with periapical lesions of 53 patients were included. After biomechanical preparation, they were randomly divided into four groups: control, methylene blue, curcumin, and erythrosine. The photosensitizers were ultrasonically activated for 1 minute after 3 minutes of pre-irradiation time (PIT). Afterward, they were irradiated with a diode laser for 1 minute. Radiographs at baseline, 1st, 3rd, 6th, 9th and 12th months were taken. Post-operative pain was recorded according to the VAS. The lesion dimensions were measured.
Results: Unlike the control group, there was a significant improvement between the baseline to the 1st month and the 1st month to the 3rd month in the PDT groups. At the twelfth month, mean lesion sizes decreased by 86% in the erythrosine and control groups, while 91% reduction was observed in the methylene blue and curcumin groups.
Conclusion: All lesions healed, but teeth treated with PDT healed faster in the first three months. According to the present results, PDT is an appropriate adjunct to conventional root canal treatment.
Clinical Relevance: The present study is the first in-vivo study including erythrosine-B and natural product such as curcumin in intra-canal photodynamic therapy. It will provide a valuable contribution in canal disinfection concept as an adjunct to routine irrigation.