Antibacterial Effects of Intracanal Medicaments in Acute Apical Abscesses

This randomized clinical trial compares the antibacterial effects of calcium hydroxide and a calcium silicate-based intracanal medicament in teeth with acute apical abscesses. Microbiological samples are collected before root canal preparation, after chemomechanical preparation, and after intracanal medication. Bacterial levels are measured using Real-Time PCR. The main objective is to determine which intracanal medicament provides a greater reduction in the total bacterial load after a 7- to 10-day medication period.

Inclusion Criteria: * Diagnosis of acute apical abscess * A single-rooted permanent tooth requiring primary endodontic treatment * Age between 18 and 65 years * No history of systemic disease * American Society of Anesthesiologists physical status classification I (ASA I) * Provision of written informed consent Exclusion Criteria: * Previous endodontic treatment of the affected tooth * Periodontal probing depth greater than 4 mm * History of trauma involving the affected tooth * Pregnancy or breastfeeding * Immunodeficiency