This gel can improve root canal results

Now, undergoing a root canal treatment will not be difficult, as researchers have developed an injectable antimicrobial gel that could disinfect a tooth during a root canal procedure.

Root canal is the procedure, in which tooth's pulp and nerve are removed before the tooth is cleaned and sealed. If bacteria, viruses or yeasts contaminate the tooth, another root canal procedure or surgery must be done.

The results suggested that the gel offers extended and significantly longer residual antibacterial properties. It is biocompatible and contains a low concentration of antimicrobial elements.

The gel has been developed by Researcher Ghaeth H. Yassen from Indiana University.

"I wanted to create a gel that provides sustained antimicrobial properties even when it is removed. I also wanted it to have minimal toxic effect on stem cells and not cause tooth discoloration," he stated.

Creating an antimicrobial space is especially important during clinical regenerative endodontic procedures.

Yassen said that the gel has advantages over traditional medications, including calcium hydroxide, widely used as an antibacterial agent.

Yassen said the next steps include optimizing a version of the gel that is opaque to X-rays and other radiation, which will enable dental care professionals to track it within the root canal system.

The research appears in the Journal of Endodontics.