Investigations of the Antimicrobial Effectiveness of Different Disinfection Protocols Against Endodontic Pathogens in Root Canal Systems.

OBJECTIVE

To compare the antimicrobial effectiveness of erbium-doped yttrium-aluminum-garnet (Er: YAG) laser, ozone therapy, photodynamic therapy (PDT), and sodium hypochlorite against endodontic pathogens.

METHODS

Standardized root canal models inoculated with Enterococcus faecalis, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Candida albicans were treated with Er: YAG laser, 5.25% NaOCl, ozone, or PDT with methylene blue. Microbial loads, treatment time, and depth of penetration were assessed.

RESULTS

Er: YAG laser demonstrated the highest efficacy against Enterococcus faecalis and Pseudomonas aeruginosa, followed by PDT. Effects on Candida albicans were not statistically significant across treatments. Er: YAG achieved the greatest depth of penetration, while PDT required the longest application time.

CONCLUSIONS

Laser and photodynamic therapies show promise as alternatives to traditional chemical disinfection in endodontics, potentially improving treatment outcomes. Further research is needed to optimize these protocols for clinical use.