Proportion of healed teeth with apical periodontitis medicated with two percent chlorhexidine gluconate liquid: a case-series study.

INTRODUCTION

Chlorhexidine gluconate (CHX) is a potential intracanal medicament, but data on healing after its use are lacking. Previously we reported on bacterial sampling in 22 teeth with apical periodontitis medicated with CHX. This study assessed healing in those teeth.

METHODS

Canals were instrumented and medicated with 2% CHX liquid for 7-15 days and subsequently irrigated and filled. Bacterial samples were taken before and after instrumentation, after medication and before root filling, and enumerated by culture and vital microscopy. After 2-4 years, subjects were examined clinically and radiographically by assigning Periapical Index scores by independent calibrated examiners. Outcome was dichotomized as healed or disease.

RESULTS

With 2 teeth extracted, 1 deceased subject, and 2 nonrespondents, 16 of 17 examined teeth (94%) were healed without association with bacterial sampling results. The proportion of healed teeth in this study did not differ significantly (Fisher exact test; P = .20) from that in a historical control (90%).

CONCLUSIONS

The results suggested a comparable outcome after medication with 2% CHX liquid and calcium hydroxide.