USE OF PHOTODYNAMIC THERAPY WITH METHYLENE BLUE IN ENDODONTIC DISINFECTION: A LITERATURE REVIEW

Abstract

Disinfection of the root canal system is a fundamental step for the success of endodontic treatment, as the persistence of microorganisms can compromise the clinical prognosis. Despite the use of conventional chemo-mechanical preparation techniques, the anatomical complexity of root canals and the presence of microbial biofilms pose challenges to the complete elimination of infectious agents. In this context, antimicrobial photodynamic therapy (aPDT), using methylene blue as a photosensitizer, has been investigated as a complementary disinfection strategy. This study aims to analyze, through a literature review, the efficacy of methylene blue-mediated photodynamic therapy as an adjunct in endodontic treatment. The research is descriptive in nature and employs a qualitative approach, examining scientific publications from 2010 to 2026 retrieved from the PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, Web of Science, and SciELO databases. The analysis covers antimicrobial mechanisms of action, application protocols, findings from various studies, and the limitations associated with the clinical use of this therapy. The objective is to gather scientific evidence that contributes to a better understanding of its potential applications in endodontics.