[The effect of age on the process of healing of chronic periapical inflammation]

INTRODUCTION

The aim of this study was to determine the effect of age on the process of healing of chronic periapical inflammation.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The study was carried out in 59 patients with accidentally disclosed chronic periapical inflammation and no other pathology. The patients were allocated to two age groups: group I--from 17 to 44 years of age; group II--from 45 to 78 years of age. All teeth with periapical inflammation were endodontically treated. Control radiographs were taken 6 and 12 months later.

RESULTS

Radiographs taken after 6 months disclosed partial or complete restoration of periapical tissues in 79.5% of patients in group I and 65.0% of patients in group II. Radiographs after 12 months showed partial or complete healing in 94.8% of patients in group I and 90.0% of patients in group II.

CONCLUSIONS

The process of healing of chronic periapical inflammation lasted longer in patients aged 45-78 years than in patients aged 17-44 years. The outcome of treatment was similar in both groups.

[Biofilm formation on root canal--review]

It seems likely that one of the reasons for failures in the endodontic treatment is the presence of biofilm in root canals. Biofilm bacteria have a slower metabolism and higher resistance and virulence due to phenotypic changes. The occurrence of biofilms has been reported both inside the canal and on the external root surface. The results of many studies suggest that biofilm may be associated with refractory periapical periodontitis and is often caused by the coronal leakage.