Novel technologies to improve the treatment of endodontic microbial infections: Inputs from a drug delivery perspective

Abstract

Endodontic microbial infections are still a challenge for an effective treatment for being biofilm-mediated and very refractory to conventional therapies. Biomechanical preparation and chemical irrigants cannot fully eradicate biofilms due to the anatomic structure of the root canal system. Instruments employed in biomechanical preparation and irrigants solution cannot reach the narrow and deepest portion of root canals, especially the apical thirds. In addition, aside from the dentin surface, biofilms can also infiltrate dentine tubules and periapical tissues, compromising treatment success. Therefore, different technologies have been investigated to achieve a more effective outcome in the control of endodontic infections. However, these technologies continue to face great difficulties in reaching the apical region and eradicating biofilms to avoid the recurrence of infection. Here, we present an overview of the fundamentals of endodontics infections and review technologies currently available for root canal treatment. We discuss them from a drug delivery perspective, highlighting each technology's strength to envision the best use of these technologies.

Keywords: Bacterial biofilm; Drug delivery; Endodontic infections; Iontophoresis; Laser; Photodynamic therapy; Ultrasound.