Photodynamic therapy: A novel ally for surgical endodontic treatment? Case report

Abstract

Introduction: Photodynamic therapy (PDT) has emerged as a powerful tool for conventional endodontic treatment, capable of eradicating microorganisms present in endodontic infections. Despite this, the use of PDT in the surgical endodontic treatment is not well-known. Case Report: This paper describes the case of a patient with asymptomatic apical periodontitis in a mandibular incisor submitted to surgical endodontic treatment associated with PDT. After conventional procedures, photosensitizer methylene blue (0.01%) was applied to the retrograde cavity for 3 minutes, followed by irradiation with diode laser (100 mW and 660 nm) for 3 minutes. Six months after the procedure, the patient was asymptomatic, and the radiographic examination showed healthy periradicular tissues. Conclusion: The association of PDT with surgical endodontic treatment was effective, suggesting that this therapy may provide additional benefits to patients when compared to the conventional surgical technique.