[Clinical study on effects of root canal instrumentation on the root canal microflora].

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the effects of instrumentation and ultrasonic treatment on the root canal flora.

METHODS

A total of 21 single-rooted teeth with chronic apical periodontitis were selected and prepared using step-back/ultrasonic technique, Samples were taken before and after the step-back preparation, and after the ultrasonic treatment.

RESULTS

The number and species of bacteria in the root canal were both reduced dramatically and there were significant differences among the three groups (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

The instrumentation and ultrasonic treatment of root canal can effectively reduce the number and species of root canal microflora.