Groundbreaking nanotherapy could revolutionize apical periodontitis treatment
A novel treatment approach utilizing nanoparticles could be more effective at treating apical periodontitis during root canals.
Although use of the disinfectant sodium hypochlorite during root canals is the standard treatment option for apical periodontitis — the leading cause of tooth loss across the world — many patients may experience complications or treatment failure, according to a news article from Penn Today.
In a study published in The Journal of Clinical Investigation, researchers from the University of Pennsylvania analyzed whether the iron oxide nanoparticle formulation known as ferumoxytol could effectively manage apical periodontitis. They assigned a group of 44 patients to undergo a standard endodontic procedure followed by saline, sodium hypochlorite or ferumoxytol plus hydrogen peroxide.
The researchers demonstrated that ferumoxytol in combination with hydrogen peroxide had antibiofilm and stem cell-stimulating effects and was capable of inhibiting severe chronic biofilm infections. They highlighted that nearly 100% of bacterial counts were reduced without adverse effects. Further, the nanoparticles promoted the growth of stem cells as well as their osteogenic capacity.
The researchers concluded that the novel cost-effective nanotherapy approach could help patients maintain natural tooth structure and functionality.
Read more: Penn Today
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