Non-surgical Management of Periapical Lesions With the Use of Newer Modalities in Adjunct to the Conventional: A Case Series.

For endodontic therapy to be successful, the root canal space must be sterilized. This is often done using intracanal irrigants and medications. To accomplish periradicular region sterilization and healing, various intracanal medicaments and irrigation techniques have been researched for better treatment outcomes. Ozonated olive oil is the most researched and successful adjunct to other medicaments owing to its antibacterial properties. Triple antibiotic paste (TAP) (metronidazole, ciprofloxacin, and minocycline) was incorporated as an inter-appointment intracanal dressing. Currently, many newer advances are depicting synergistic effects in the elimination of persistent endodontic pathogens. Given this, in the current case series, periapical lesions were managed non-surgically for alternating weeks by the advent of triple antibiotic paste (TAP) and ozonated olive oil (O3-oil) with laser activation. Irrigation and its effects were further enhanced with the use of a laser, aiming for thorough debridement and rendering the canal free of microbes. Once the patient was asymptomatic and there was no sinus drainage seen, final obturation was done. Therefore, this case series depicts that traditional root canal therapy with the use of ozonated olive oil and laser activation can non-surgically heal the lesion, leading to successful treatment outcomes. Periapical lesions in three cases have been observed; on the initial visit, all lesions were accessible, cleansed, and shaped. We administered ozonated olive oil with laser activation and a triple antibiotic paste on the following visit. In all three cases, six-month follow-ups have shown evidence of a successful course of therapy.

Periapical Lesions in Panoramic Radiography and CBCT Imaging-Assessment of AI's Diagnostic Accuracy.

Background/Objectives: Periapical lesions (PLs) are frequently detected in dental radiology. Accurate diagnosis of these lesions is essential for proper treatment planning. Imaging techniques such as orthopantomogram (OPG) and cone-beam CT (CBCT) imaging are used to identify PLs. The aim of this study was to assess the diagnostic accuracy of artificial intelligence (AI) software Diagnocat for PL detection in OPG and CBCT images. Methods: The study included 49 patients, totaling 1223 teeth. Both OPG and CBCT images were analyzed by AI software and by three experienced clinicians. All the images were obtained in one patient cohort, and findings were compared to the consensus of human readers using CBCT. The AI's diagnostic accuracy was compared to a reference method, calculating sensitivity, specificity, accuracy, positive predictive value (PPV), negative predictive value (NPV), and F1 score. Results: The AI's sensitivity for OPG images was 33.33% with an F1 score of 32.73%. For CBCT images, the AI's sensitivity was 77.78% with an F1 score of 84.00%. The AI's specificity was over 98% for both OPG and CBCT images. Conclusions: The AI demonstrated high sensitivity and high specificity in detecting PLs in CBCT images but lower sensitivity in OPG images.

Comparative Analysis of Examination Methods for Periapical Lesion Diagnostics: Assessing Cone-Beam Computer Tomography, Ultrasound, and Periapical Radiography.

INTRODUCTION: Periapical lesions of teeth are typically evaluated using periapical X-rays (PA) or cone-beam computer tomography (CBCT); however, ultrasound imaging (US) can also be used to detect bone defects. A comparative analysis is necessary to establish the diagnostic accuracy of US for the detection of periapical lesions in comparison with PA and CBCT. OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to evaluate and compare the measurement precision of US against PA and CBCT in detecting periapical lesions. METHODS: This study included 43 maxillary and mandibular teeth with periapical lesions. All teeth were examined clinically, radiographically, and ultrasonographically. Observers evaluated and measured the periapical lesions on CBCT, PA, and US images. RESULTS: The comparison of lesion size showed that it differs significantly between the different methods of examination. A statistically significant difference was found between CBCT and US (mean difference = 0.99 mm, 95% CI [0.43-1.55]), as well as between CBCT and PA (mean difference = 0.61 mm, 95% CI [0.17-1.05]). No difference was found between the US and PA methods (p = 0.193). CONCLUSION: US cannot replace PA radiography in detecting pathologies but it can accurately measure and characterize periapical lesions with minimal radiation exposure. CBCT is the most precise and radiation-intensive method so it should only be used for complex cases.

The effects of NLRP3 inflammasome inhibition or knockout in experimental apical periodontitis induced in mice.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the effects of NLRP3 inflammasome inhibition or knockout in experimental apical periodontitis (AP) induced in mice. METHODS: The experimental AP was induced by pulpal exposure. To evaluate NLRP3-specific inhibitor medication (MCC950), WT mice received intraperitoneal injections, while the control received PBS (n = 10). In addition, to evaluate NLRP3 knockout, 35 wild-type (WT) and 35 NLRP3-/- mice were divided into a control group (without pulpal exposure, n = 5) and three experimental groups: after 2, 14 and 42 days after pulpal exposure (n = 10). Microscopic and molecular analyzes were carried out using a significance level of 5%. RESULTS: Exposure to MCC950 did not affect the periapical lesion size after 14 days (P = 0.584). However, exposed mice had a lower expression of IL-1ß, IL-18 and caspase-1 (P = 0.010, 0.016 and 0.002, respectively). Moreover, NLRP3-/- mice showed a smaller periapical lesion after 14 and 42 days (P = 0.023 and 0.031, respectively), as well as a lower expression of IL-1ß after 42 days (P < 0.001), of IL-18 and caspase-1 after 14 (P < 0.001 and 0.035, respectively) and 42 days (P = 0.002 and 0.002, respectively). NLRP3-/- mice also showed a lower mRNA for Il-1ß, Il-18 and Casp1 after 2 (P = 0.002, 0.036 and 0.001, respectively) and 14 days (P = 0.002, 0.002 and 0.001, respectively). CONCLUSIONS: NLRP3 inflammasome inhibition or knockout can attenuate the inflammatory events that result in the periapical lesion (AP) formation after pulpal exposure in mice. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: The NLRP3 inflammasome may be a therapeutic target for AP, and new approaches may verify the impact of its inhibition (through intracanal medications or filling materials) on the bone repair process and treatment success.

Efficacy of Mineral Trioxide Aggregate (MTA) as a Reparative Material in Iatrogenic Furcal Perforations in Mandibular Molars.

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES:  Mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA) is widely recognized as one of the most biocompatible materials for perforation repairs during root canal treatment (RCT). Experimental evidence has consistently demonstrated MTA's superior sealing ability and biocompatibility compared to various dental materials, including amalgam, intermediate restorative material, zinc oxide eugenol cement, and resin-modified glass ionomer cement. This study aimed to assess the efficacy of MTA as a reparative material in iatrogenic furcal perforations during RCT. MATERIALS & METHODS: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted from May 18, 2021, to November 17, 2021, at the Department of Operative Dentistry, Nishtar Institute of Dentistry, Multan, Pakistan. Seventy-six patients aged 18-60 years, of both genders, who developed iatrogenic furcal perforations during procedures were included. Patients with fractures or endo-perio lesions identified during clinical and radiographic examinations were excluded. Isolation was achieved using a rubber dam. The perforation site was cleaned and irrigated with 1% sodium hypochlorite to control hemorrhage and enhance visualization. Following the manufacturer's recommendations, the perforation site was sealed with MTA mixed with sterile saline. RESULTS: The age range in this study was 18 to 60 years, with a mean age of 42.09 ± 9.69 years. Most patients (56.78%) were between 41-60 years old. Out of the 76 patients, 46 (60.53%) were male, and 30 (39.47%) were female, resulting in a male-to-female ratio of 1.5:1. The study found that MTA's efficacy as a reparative material in iatrogenic furcal perforations was observed in 61 (80.26%) patients. A 6-month follow-up revealed no periodontal ligament breakdown, demonstrating the efficacy of MTA as a reparative material in iatrogenic furcal perforations. CONCLUSION: This study concludes that the efficacy of MTA as a reparative material in iatrogenic furcal perforations is remarkable and significant.

Reprint of: The Effect of Mineral Trioxide Aggregate Obturation Levels on the Outcome of Endodontic Retreatment: An Observational Study.

INTRODUCTION: No clinical studies have examined the effect of mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA) obturation levels on the outcome of endodontic retreatment. This retrospective study examined treatment outcomes in three cohorts that compared overfilling, flush filling, and underfilling after orthograde retreatment using MTA. METHODS: Two hundred fifty patients with 264 teeth diagnosed with previously treated root canals and apical periodontitis retreated in a private endodontic practice were included. All teeth received MTA obturation and the extent of the final filling level was measured in relation to the major apical foramen. After 6-month follow-ups, all nonhealing cases were treated surgically. After 24- to 72-month reviews, the effect of preoperative lesion size and the degree of MTA obturation level were assessed. Multiple linear regression and time-to-event analysis using Stata 17 software (StataCorp LLC, College Station, TX) were used to evaluate the data. RESULTS: Within the three cohorts, 99 out of 108 overfilled teeth (91.7%), 90 out of 103 flush fills (87.4%), and 10 out of 53 underfilled teeth (18.9%) healed and were successfully retreated without surgery at 48-months. When surgical outcomes were included, the combined healed proportion was 93.2%. Preoperative lesion size was found to be an important predictor for retreatment nonhealing. A 1-mm increase in lesion size at baseline resulted in an estimated 11% (95% CI 1.04, 1.18)-38% (95% CI 1.22, 1.58) increase in the risk of surgery. Compared to overfilling and flush filling, underfilling was associated with an approximately three-fold increase in requiring surgery and characterized by delayed healing. CONCLUSION: MTA obturation is a viable retreatment option for teeth with nonhealing endodontic treatment. MTA overfills or flush fillings do not adversely affect healing outcomes. However, MTA underfilling increases the chances for nonhealing and surgical intervention.

Evaluation of stress distribution on an endodontically treated maxillary central tooth with lesion restored with different crown materials: A finite element analysis.

Objectives: The biomechanical response of teeth with periapical lesions that have been restored using various substructure materials, as well as the stress mapping in the alveolar bone, has not been thoroughly described. In this context, the objective of this study is to investigate the structural stress distributions on root canal-treated maxillary right central incisors with lesions restored using different crown materials under linear static loading conditions through finite element analysis (FEA). Methods: In the study, five FEA models were utilised to represent healthy teeth and teeth restored with different substructure materials: (A) a healthy tooth, (B) a lesioned, root canal-treated, composite-filled tooth, (C) a lesioned, fiber-posted, zirconia-based crown, (D) a tooth with lesions, a fiber post, and Ni-Cr infrastructure crown, (E) a tooth with a lesion, a fiber post, and an IPS E-max infrastructure crown. A force of 100 N was applied at an angle of 45° to the long axis of the tooth from 2 mm cervical to the incisal line on the palatal surface. Deformation behaviour and maximum equivalent stress distributions on the tooth sub-components, including the bony structure for each model, were simulated. Results: Differences were observed in the stress distributions of the models. The maximum stress values of the models representing the restorations with different infrastructures varied, and the highest value was obtained in the model of the E-max crown (Model E: 136.050 MPa). The minimum stress magnitudes were obtained from Model B the composite-filled tooth (80.39 MPa); however, it was observed that the equivalent stresses in all the models showed a similar distribution for all components with varying magnitudes. In periapical lesion areas, low stresses were observed. In all models, the cervicobuccal collar region of the teeth had dense equivalent stresses. Conclusion: Different restorative treatment methods applied to root canal-treated teeth with periapical lesions can impact the stress in the alveolar bone and the biomechanical response of the tooth. Relatively high stress values in the cortical bone at the cervical line of the tooth have been observed to decrease towards the apical region. This observation may suggest a potential healing effect by reducing pressure in the periapical lesion area. Clinical significance: Composite resin restorations can be considered the first-choice treatment option for the restoration of root canal-treated teeth with lesions. In crown restorations, it would be advantageous to prefer zirconia or metal-supported prostheses in terms of biomechanics.

Solitary bone plasmacytoma mimicking a lesion of odontogenic origin: A case report.

INTRODUCTION AND IMPORTANCE: Solitary bone plasmacytoma (SBP) is an early-stage plasma cell malignancy. It is an extremely rare condition and its diagnosis may not be straightforward. This report presents a case of maxillary SBP. CASE PRESENTATION: A 48-year old man sought care for persistent swelling and pain in the periapical region of the left maxillary molars. He had been diagnosed with "apical periodontitis" and root canal treatment of teeth #26 and #27 was ineffective. Extra-oral examination revealed swelling at the left maxilla. Intraoral examination revealed a hard, non-fluctuant swollen region in the buccal alveolar mucosa adjacent to the apices of teeth #25-27. Cone-beam computed tomography revealed extensive bone destruction in the left maxilla. The patient underwent partial maxillary resection and radical maxillary sinusotomy. Further testing (positron emission CT scan, histopathological and immunohistochemical examination) confirmed the diagnosis of SBP. The patient had a recurrence two years later, which was managed with left subtotal maxillectomy and radiotherapy. There was no evidence of recurrence during 20 months of follow-up. DISCUSSION: SBP may mimic an odontogenic lesion when found in the jaw bone. To confirm the diagnosis, routine blood test, complete body skeletal survey, metastatic investigations and histopathology should be performed. Radiotherapy is the primary treatment. CONCLUSION: SBP may occur in the maxilla mimicking an odontogenic lesion. Surgery may be part of the diagnostic procedure and an adjunct to definitive radiation. Radiotherapy is the primary treatment.

TLR2 agonist prevents the progression of periapical lesions in mice by reducing osteoclast activity and regulating the frequency of Tregs.

AIM: To evaluate the role of regulatory T lymphocytes (Tregs) in the presence or absence of the synthetic ligand Pam3Cys during the progression of periapical lesion in wild-type (WT) and toll-like receptor 2 knockout (TLR2KO) mice. METHODOLOGY: A total of 130 C57BL/6 male WT and TLR2KO mice were allocated into control (n = 5) and experimental (periapical lesion induction) (n = 10) groups. In specific groups (WT+Pam3cys and TLR2KO+Pam3cys), the synthetic ligand Pam3cys was administered intraperitoneally every 7 days, according to the experimental period (14, 21 and 42 days). At the end of those periods, the animals were euthanized, and the mandible and the spleen were submitted to histotechnical processing. Mandible histological sections were analysed by haematoxylin and eosin, TRAP histoenzymology and immunohistochemistry (FOXP3, RANK, RANKL and OPG). Spleen sections were analysed by immunohistochemistry (FOXP3). RESULTS: The inflammatory infiltrate and bone resorption were more intense in the TLR2KO group compared to the WT group. The animals that received the Pam3cys had smaller periapical lesions when compared to the animals that did not receive the ligand (p < .05). TLR2KO animals showed a significant increase in the number of osteoclasts when compared to TLR2KO+Pam3cys group (p < .05). At 21 days, the WT+Pam3cys group had a lower number of osteoclasts when compared to the WT animals (p = .02). FOXP3 expression was more intense in the WT+Pam3cys groups when compared to the WT animals in the 42 days (p = .03). In the spleen analysis, the WT+Pam3cys group also had a higher expression of FOXP3 when compared to the WT animals at 14 and 42 days (p = .02). Concerning RANKL, there was a reduction in staining in the KOTLR2+Pam3cys groups at 21 and 42 days (p = .03) and a higher binding ratio between RANK/RANKL in animals that did not receive the ligand. CONCLUSION: Administration of the Pam3cys increased the proliferation of Tregs, showed by FOXP3 expression and prevented the progression of the periapical lesion in WT mice. On the other hand, in the TLR2KO animals, Treg expression was lower with larger areas of periapical lesions. Finally, systemic administration of the Pam3cys in KO animals was able to limit the deleterious effects of the absence of the TLR2 receptor.

Uncertainty-based Active Learning by Bayesian U-Net for Multi-label Cone-beam CT Segmentation.

INTRODUCTION: Training of Artificial Intelligence (AI) for biomedical image analysis depends on large annotated datasets. This study assessed the efficacy of Active Learning (AL) strategies training AI models for accurate multilabel segmentation and detection of periapical lesions in cone-beam CTs (CBCTs) using a limited dataset. METHODS: Limited field-of-view CBCT volumes (n = 20) were segmented by clinicians (clinician segmentation [CS]) and Bayesian U-Net-based AL strategies. Two AL functions, Bayesian Active Learning by Disagreement [BALD] and Max_Entropy [ME], were used for multilabel segmentation ("Lesion"-"Tooth Structure"-"Bone"-"Restorative Materials"-"Background"), and compared to a non-AL benchmark Bayesian U-Net function. The training-to-testing set ratio was 4:1. Comparisons between the AL and Bayesian U-Net functions versus CS were made by evaluating the segmentation accuracy with the Dice indices and lesion detection accuracy. The Kruskal-Wallis test was used to assess statistically significant differences. RESULTS: The final training set contained 26 images. After 8 AL iterations, lesion detection sensitivity was 84.0% for BALD, 76.0% for ME, and 32.0% for Bayesian U-Net, which was significantly different (P < .0001; H = 16.989). The mean Dice index for all labels was 0.680 ± 0.155 for Bayesian U-Net and 0.703 ± 0.166 for ME after eight AL iterations, compared to 0.601 ± 0.267 for Bayesian U-Net over the mean of all iterations. The Dice index for "Lesion" was 0.504 for BALD and 0.501 for ME after 8 AL iterations, and at a maximum 0.288 for Bayesian U-Net. CONCLUSIONS: Both AL strategies based on uncertainty quantification from Bayesian U-Net BALD, and ME, provided improved segmentation and lesion detection accuracy for CBCTs. AL may contribute to reducing extensive labeling needs for training AI algorithms for biomedical image analysis in dentistry.

Effect of EGCG-based paste as intracanal dressing, in MMPs 2 and 9 expression in dog's periapical lesions

Abstract High expression of MMP-2 and MMP-9 in periapical lesions plays an important role in the degradation of the extracellular matrix. This study aimed to investigate the effect of epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG)-based endodontic paste as an intracanal dressing on the expression of MMP-2 and MMP-9 in periapical lesions. Periapical lesions were experimentally induced in 35 mature beagle dog premolars randomly divided into healthy teeth, untreated periapical lesions, periapical lesions treated in a single session (control groups), and periapical lesions treated in two sessions with EGCG or calcium hydroxide-based pastes (experimental groups). After 120 days, specimens were obtained for histopathologic and immunofluorescence analyses to assess the expression of MMP-2 and MMP-9. The statistical analysis was performed using a p-value of 0.05. Endodontic treatment in two sessions using medication with EGCG and calcium hydroxide-based pastes provided similar repair of the apical and periapical tissues and neoformation of periodontal ligament fibers, cementum, and alveolar bone (p>0.05). The experimental groups treated in two sessions with both medications presented expression of MMP-2 and MMP-9 similar to that in healthy teeth (p>0.05), and significantly lower than teeth treated in a single session or untreated periapical lesions (p <0.001). Expression of MMP-2 and MMP-9 was observed in the cytoplasm of fibroblasts, osteoblasts, cementoblasts, cementocytes, and vascular endothelium. The use of EGCG-based endodontic paste reduced the expression of MMP-2 and MMP-9 and allowed repair of periapical lesions, similar to calcium hydroxide-based paste, and superior to treatment performed in a single session.

Resumo A alta expressão de MMP-2 e MMP-9 em lesões periapicais desempenha um papel importante na degradação da matriz extracelular. Este estudo teve como objetivo investigar o efeito de uma pasta à base de epigalocatequina-3-galato (EGCG) como curativo intracanal na expressão de MMP-2 e MMP-9 em lesões periapicais. Lesões periapicais foram induzidas experimentalmente em 35 pré-molares de cães da raça beagle, maduros, divididos aleatoriamente em dentes saudáveis, lesões periapicais não tratadas, lesões periapicais tratadas em uma única sessão e lesões periapicais tratadas em duas sessões com a pasta de EGCG ou pasta à base de hidróxido de cálcio. O operador monitorou os animais e realizou a eutanásia após 120 dias para análises histopatológicas e de imunofluorescência para avaliar a expressão de MMP-2 e MMP-9. A análise estatística foi realizada utilizando p=0,05. O tratamento endodôntico em duas sessões com pasta à base de EGCG e pasta à base de hidróxido de cálcio proporcionou níveis semelhantes de reparação dos tecidos apicais e periapicais e neoformação de fibras do ligamento periodontal, cemento e osso alveolar. Em ambos os grupos, a expressão de MMP-2 e MMP-9 foi mínima, sendo observada no citoplasma de fibroblastos, osteoblastos, cementoblastos, cementócitos e endotélio vascular. Em ambos os grupos tratados em duas sessões, a expressão de MMP-2 e MMP-9 foi semelhante à dos dentes hígidos e significativamente menor do que nas lesões periapicais tratadas em sessão única ou não tratadas (p < 0,001). O uso da pasta à base de EGCG reduziu a expressão de MMP-2 e MMP-9 e permitiu o reparo de lesões periapicais, semelhante à pasta à base de hidróxido de cálcio, e foi superior ao tratamento realizado em sessão única.

Management of a Radicular Cyst in Anterior Maxilla With Endosurgical Intervention Along With Use of Mineral Trioxide Aggregate (MTA) and Bone Graft: A Case Report.

Radicular cysts are the most common cystic lesions that affect the jaws, which, though mostly asymptomatic, can be seen radiographically as an oval or pear-shaped unilocular radiolucency in the periapical region. Nonsurgical root canal procedures and periapical surgery followed by placement of bone substitute and bioceramic root-end filling material is generally the treatment of choice. This case report highlights the endosurgical management of long-standing trauma that led to a radicular cyst with respect to three maxillary anterior teeth in a young adult. The clinical and radiographic examination led to a provisional diagnosis of a radicular cyst, which was confirmed by biopsy. Non-surgical root canal treatment was performed with Mineral Trioxide Aggregate (MTA) as the apical barrier and surgical enucleation of the cyst was performed followed by placement of hydroxyapatite bone graft. Follow-ups till two years were done, which revealed the successful management of the case.

Pioneering Periapical Healing: The Novel Synergy of Mineral Trioxide Aggregate and Injectable Platelet-Rich Fibrin.

This case report presents a novel non-surgical approach for managing a substantial periapical lesion associated with tooth 12 using a combination of injectable platelet-rich fibrin (i-PRF) and mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA). A 28-year-old male patient presented with pus discharge and intermittent swelling following a history of dental trauma. Clinical and radiographic assessments confirmed a large periapical cyst associated with tooth 12. The treatment involved root canal therapy with calcium hydroxide medication, leading to symptom relief. Subsequently, i-PRF combined with MTA was used as a regenerative material for periapical healing. Follow-up examinations at three, six, and nine months showed complete resolution of symptoms and radiographic evidence of lesion healing. This innovative technique demonstrates the potential of i-PRF and MTA synergy in the non-surgical management of periapical lesions, avoiding the risks associated with surgical interventions and promoting effective tissue healing.

Platelet-Rich Fibrin-Enhanced Bone Healing Co-grafted With Either Hydroxyapatite and Beta Tricalcium Phosphate or Demineralized Freeze-Dried Bone in Small Maxillofacial Osseous Defects: A Clinical Comparison.

INTRODUCTION: This study was conducted to clinically compare a commercially available combination of 70:30 nanocrystalline hydroxyapatite (HA) and beta tricalcium phosphate (ßTCP) along with platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) with demineralized freeze-dried bone (DFDB) grafts along with PRF in small maxillofacial osseous defects. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Thirty patients with one osseous defect were randomly distributed into two groups of 15 each: Group A and Group B. Group A patients received HA+ßTCP+PRF while Group B received DFDB + PRF. Postoperative pain, swelling, wound dehiscence, and the presence or absence of infection were evaluated at various intervals up to seven postop days and compared between the two groups and within either group. A technetium 99m methylene diphosphonate (MDP 99mTc) scan was also done for a representative patient of either group at the end of three months to evaluate the fate of the graft. RESULTS: We found no significant difference between the two groups for any of our parameters. Significant improvements were noted for pain and swelling within either group at various intervals. The MDP 99mTc scan showed increased tracer uptake for the representing patient of either group. CONCLUSIONS: HA+ßTCP is more inexpensive than DFDB and more readily available and has no host incompatibility or infection potential, resulting in similar clinical postoperative states as DFDB when either is used with PRF.

Endodontic Microsurgery on a Persistent Periapical Lesion.

Extrusion of root filling material had been shown to reduce the success of endodontic treatment. This case report describes the management of a patient who reported prolonged, persistent, and increasing pain on an upper root filled central incisor with extruded root filling material. A 28-year-old female patient came with the chief complaint of pain and tenderness on the upper left central incisor. The pain was mostly triggered by mastication. Upon examination and investigation, the tooth of concern was tooth 21 which was a root treated many years ago. It appeared to have tenderness on percussion and palpation. Non-surgical root canal retreatment was completed on tooth 21. However, the patient complained of the same pain while biting even after six months post-obturation. Therefore, endodontic microsurgery was performed to remove the root filling material that was extruded and to enucleate the granulomatous lesion around the periapical region of tooth 21. After enucleation, apical root end resection was performed. Postoperatively, the patient reported comfort and no pain and was able to resume her daily activities. At six months of review, the radiograph showed evidence of complete healing. This case report captured the importance of endodontic microsurgery as a viable treatment option where nonsurgical root canal retreatment failed to relieve the patient's symptoms.

Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. lactis HN019 has antimicrobial activity against endodontic pathogens in vitro.

The aim of the present study was to evaluate, in vitro, the antimicrobial activity of the probiotic Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. lactis HN019, through the well technique, against 10 microorganisms can be found involved in endodontic infections. The antimicrobial activity of the probiotic was performed on Streptococcus mutans, Streptococcus sobrinus, Lacticaseibacillus casei, Enterococcus faecalis, Staphylococcus aureus, Candida albicans, Porphyromonas gingivalis, Porphyromonas endodontalis, Fusobacterium nucleatum and Prevotella intermedia. For the control group, it was used non-pathogenic bacteria Escherichia coli, Saccharomyces cerevisiae, and Kocuria rizhopilla. After 48 to 72 h of incubation of the petri dishes containing the culture medium, the microorganism strains, and the probiotic, the plates were examined to assess the uniformity of microbial growth, presence of contaminants, and the halo of inhibition. After visual inspection, the reading of the halo of inhibition was performed with the aid of a digital caliper using a reflected light source to illuminate the inverted plate on a black, opaque background after removing the cap. Thus, 3 values were obtained from each bacterial inoculum, which were added and divided by three to obtain the average of the values. The results of the in vitro study demonstrated that the probiotic B. animalis subsp. lactis HN019 promoted the inhibition of all strains of the pathogens evaluated, with the exception of Candida albicans, demonstrating antimicrobial activity on these microorganisms.

Evaluation of an artificial intelligence system for the diagnosis of apical periodontitis on digital panoramic images.

Aims: The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effectiveness of an artificial intelligence (AI) system in the detection of roots with apical periodontitis (AP) on digital panoramic radiographs. Materials and Methods: Three hundred and six panoramic radiographs containing 400 roots with AP (an equal number for both jaws) were used to test the diagnostic performance of an AI system. Panoramic radiographs of the patients were selected with the terms 'apical lesion' and 'apical periodontitis' from the archive and then with the agreement of two oral and maxillofacial radiologists. The radiologists also carried out the grouping and determination of the lesion borders. A deep learning (DL) model was built and the diagnostic performance of the model was evaluated by using recall, precision, and F measure. Results: The recall, precision, and F-measure scores were 0.98, 0.56, and 0.71, respectively. While the number of roots with AP detected correctly in the mandible was 169 of 200 roots, it was only 56 of 200 roots in the maxilla. Only four roots without AP were incorrectly identified as those with AP. Conclusions: The DL method developed for the automatic detection of AP on digital panoramic radiographs showed high recall, precision, and F measure values for the mandible, but low values for the maxilla, especially for the widened periodontal ligament (PL)/uncertain AP.

Prevalence of apical periodontitis in people living with HIV in Southern Brazil / Prevalência de periodontite apical em pessoas vivendo com HIV no Sul do Brasil

Objective: This cross-sectional study aimed to describe the prevalence of apical periodontitis (AP) in people living with HIV (PLHIV) over 50 years old and explore its association with sociodemographic, medical, and oral characteristics. Methods: Data from 59 PLHIV were collected, and the periapical area of 1018 teeth was evaluated through periapical radiographs (Rx) using the periapical index (PAI). The presence and quality of root fillings and restorations (coronal fillings and crowns) were assessed with Rx, and caries presence was based on Rx and clinical data. Viral load (VL) and T CD4 counts were also analyzed. Results: AP prevailed in 71% of individuals and 8% of teeth. Family income of >5 Brazilian minimum wages (OR=0.06, 95% CI=0.005-0.62) and having at least one root-filled tooth (OR=14.55, 95% CI=1.45-145.72) were associated with AP prevalence, whereas VL and T CD4 were not. Caries, root filling, and restorations were associated with AP occurrence. Conclusion: PLHIV presented a high AP prevalence, but intrinsic factors related to HIV infection were not associated with AP in the studied subjects. PLHIV would benefit from oral health policies to prevent AP, as the results indicate that the endodontic disease in the present sub-population might be related to social problems.(AU)

Objetivo: este estudo transversal teve como objetivo descrever a prevalência de periodontite apical (PA) em pessoas vivendo com HIV (PVHIV) acima de 50 anos de idade, e explorar sua associação com características sociodemográficas, médicas e bucais. Métodos: os dados de 59 PVHIV foram coletados e a região periapical de 1018 dentes foi avaliada através de radiografias periapicais (Rx) usando o Índice Periapical (PAI). A presença e qualidade das obturações radiculares e restaurações (restaurações diretas e coroas) também foram avaliadas no Rx; a presença de cárie foi baseada em dados clínicos e radiográficos. Carga Viral (CV) e contagem de linfócitos T CD4 também foram avaliados. Resultados: a prevalência de PA nos indivíduos foi de 71%, e 8% dos dentes apresentaram PA. Renda familiar >5 salários mínimos (OR=0.06, 95% CI=0.005-0.62) e ter pelo menos um dente com obturação endodôntica (OR=14.55, 95% CI=1.45-145.72) foram associados com a prevalência de PA, enquanto que CV e T-CD4 não foram. A presença de cárie, obturação endodôntica e restaurações foram associadas com a presença de PA no dente. Conclusão: PVHIV apresentaram uma alta prevalência de PA, mas fatores intrínsecos relacionados à infecção pelo HIV não foram associados com PA nos sujeitos avaliados. PVHIV se beneficiariam de políticas públicas de saúde para prevenir a PA, uma vez que os resultados indicam que a doença endodôntica na presente subpopulação pode ser relacionada a problemas sociais.(AU)

Utility of Ultrasonography for Diagnosing and Differentiating Periapical Granuloma from Radicular Cyst.

RATIONALE AND OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to investigate the reliability and accuracy of high-resolution ultrasonography (US) for diagnosing periapical lesions and differentiating radicular cysts from granulomas. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This study included 109 teeth with periapical lesions of endodontic origin from 109 patients scheduled for apical microsurgery. Ultrasonic outcomes were analyzed and categorized after thorough clinical and radiographic examinations using US. B-mode US images reflected the echotexture, echogenicity, and lesion margin, while color Doppler US assessed the presence and features of blood flow of interested areas. Pathological tissue samples were obtained during apical microsurgery and subjected to histopathological examination. Fleiss' κ was used to measure interobserver reliability. Statistical analyses were performed to assess the diagnostic validity and the overall agreement between US and histological findings. The reliability of US compared to histopathological examinations was assessed based on Cohen's κ. RESULTS: The percent accuracy of US for diagnosing cysts, granulomas, and cysts with infection based on histopathological findings was 89.9%, 89.0%, and 97.2%, respectively. The sensitivity of US diagnoses was 95.1% for cysts, 84.1% for granulomas, and 80.0% for cysts with infection. The specificity of US diagnoses was 86.8% for cysts, 95.7% for granulomas, and 98.1% for cysts with infection. The reliability for US compared to histopathological examinations was good (κ = 0.779). CONCLUSION: The echotexture characteristics of lesions in US images correlated with their histopathological features. US can provide accurate information on the nature of periapical lesions based on the echotexture of their contents and the presence of vascularity. It can help improve clinical diagnosis and avoid overtreatment of patients with apical periodontitis.

Three-dimensional Assessment of Two-rooted Maxillary Central Incisor with Labiogingival Groove: Endodontic and Periodontal Surgical Management.

Understanding the diversity of root canal systems and their anatomical/morphological variations helps in achieving improved outcomes of root canal treatment. The outcome of endodontic treatment depends on a thorough knowledge of dental anatomy and its variations. Maxillary central incisor with two roots is a rare entity, so a complete clinical and radiological examination is important before initiating the treatment. Recently, three-dimensional (3D) radiography has improved the diagnosis and treatment planning in endodontics. So, the current report describes the endodontic and periodontal surgical management of traumatized discolored maxillary central incisors with two separated roots and root canals identified by two-dimensional (2D) and 3D radiographic examination. How to cite this article: Prasad P, Galani M, Nawal RR, et al. Three-dimensional Assessment of Two-rooted Maxillary Central Incisor with Labiogingival Groove: Endodontic and Periodontal Surgical Management. Int J Clin Pediatr Dent 2023;16(3):528-533.