ROOT CEMENTUM INVASION AND ADHESION BY ENTEROCOCCUS FAECALIS CONFOCAL ANALYSIS.

Abstract

Aims to know ability of Enterococcus faecalis invasion and adhesion into root cementum.Methodology Forty single rooted human intact teeth were selected, group I with 20 teeth as control group with no access opening and apical seal with varnish. Group II with 20 teeth, after access opening and canal debridement, all the samples were subjected for gamma sterilization to ensure complete absence of microorganisms, and then exposed to Enterococcus faecalis broth, in group II broth is placed with the help of micro pipette into root canal and at the same time apical 1/3 of tooth were immersed into broth with both groups for 8 weeks. Biomechanical preparation, obturation and coronal sealing done using GIC with group II, followed by apical 1/3 immersed in the enterococcus broth for 8 weeks, examination under confocal laser scanning microscope after splitting the teeth samples into two halfs buccolingually.Results: This study shows only adhesion of Enterococcus faecalis to root cementum. Conclusion Adhesion of Enterococcus faecalis to root cementum may be the possible reason for persisting infection after root canal treatment.