Putative periodontal pathogens in persisting periodontal pockets of endodontic origin.

BACKGROUND

The microbial profile of endodontically treated teeth, presenting with a persisting deep periodontal pocket, secondary to a primary endodontic lesion, draining through the gingival crevice, has received very less attention. This observational study was done to evaluate if these sites with persisting pockets of endodontic origin persist because they have acquired bacteria which are considered as putative periodontal pathogens.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Subgingival plaque samples were collected from fifty patients diagnosed with a primary endodontic and a secondary periodontal lesion that persisted even after completion of the root canal treatment. Clinical parameters such as probing pocket depth, clinical attachment level, plaque index, furcation, and tooth mobility were recorded. Real-time polymerase chain reaction was used to determine the possible association between six bacteria, which are frequently associated with periodontal and endodontic lesions.

RESULTS

The mean cycle threshold value for (Td) was found to be 33.74, and for (Ef), it was 34.39. With regard to clinical attachment loss, Td ( < 0.04) and ( < 0.05) had a significant correlation.

CONCLUSION

Ef (92%) and Td (86%) were found to be most prevalent. and were in minimal to nonexistent levels.