USE OF PHOTODYNAMIC THERAPY TO COMBAT ENDODONTIC INFECTIONS

Abstract

Currently, endodontic treatment has achieved significative success in daily practice. However, the failure rates that depend on retreatment remain latent and large due to the presence of microorganisms colonizing dentinal tubules, accessory canals, isthmuses and apical deltas. The presence of these microorganisms shows the difficulties for irrigating substances and intracanal medications to promote total disinfection, since the bacteria can penetrate at depths greater than 1000nm, while chemical irrigants penetrate only up 130nm. Some cases of retreatment are also closely linked to bacterial resistance, due to the colonization of the canal by Enterococcus faecalis, besides with other species of microorganisms such as Candida albicans. These species are resistant to several antimicrobials use conventionally in endodontic treatment, such as calcium hydroxide, paramonochorophenol, chlorhexidine and sodium hypochlorite. Based on the above, photodynamic therapy or PDT presents itself as a very interesting alternative regarding disinfection and appears as an adjunct to treatment, helping to combat endodontic infections. The objective of this work is to investigate, from a literature review, the indicates and benefits of the photodynamic therapy in Endodontics, as well as usage protocols.