Mucosal Fenestration After 2% Chlorhexidine Extrusion Used in Substitution of Sodium Hypochlorite: A Case Report

Eur J Dent. 2020 Jul;14(3):511-516. doi: 10.1055/s-0040-1714173. Epub 2020 Aug 20.

Abstract

This report describes a case of sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl) and chlorhexidine (CHX) extrusion through the apical foramen, causing acute pain, swelling and mucosal fenestration. A 62-year-old woman was referred for endodontic treatment in the first left maxillary premolar with a diagnosis of necrotic pulp. After the root canal irrigation with 2.5% NaOCl, the patient felt a burning sensation and pain. Discrete swelling and redness were noted in the patient's face at the end of the session. Antibiotic and corticosteroids were prescribed. In the next appointment, 2% CHX was used, but another episode of extrusion occurred, with a sudden acute pain and intense swelling within a few minutes after the injection. After 2 weeks, the patient exhibited a left-side facial swelling extending anterior and inferior to the left zygomatic arch and superior to the body of the mandible. Oral antibiotic and anti-inflammatory drugs were administered. After 10 days, the swelling had completely diminished, but a mucosal fenestration and tooth mobility were verified. A cone beam CT was requested and showed a periapical lesion involving both buccal and palatal roots. After a prosthetic evaluation, the tooth extraction was indicated. One week after tooth removal, the mucosa was completely healed.

Grants and funding

Funding This study was supported by grants from Fundação Carlos Chagas Filho de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado do Rio de Janeiro (FAPERJ), Brazilian Governmental Institution.