Prevalence of selected microorganisms in the pulp space of human deciduous teeth with irreversible pulpitis

Introduction Although oral health education and prevention are priorities in contemporary dentistry, pulp changes in deciduous teeth are very frequent and cannot be avoided at all times. Thus curative dentistry should simultaneously evolve and improve concepts and therapeutic procedures. The success of an endodontic treatment depends on many factors with the reduction or elimination of bacterial infection being the most important one. However for this to occur, precise identification of microorganisms participating in the pathogenesis of irreversible pulpitis is important in order to understand disease process and to provide effective antimicrobial treatment1. Even with the standard antimicrobial regimens reinfections are not uncommon. Studies have shown that some species of microorganisms found in root canals are resistant to routine therapy and cause persistent infections. Results of studies in which the microflora of teeth with persistence disease was studied showed a high prevalence of enterococci, streptococci, and Candida,2, 3,4,5 and are capable of invading dentinal tubules. Staphylococcus aureus are capable of surviving for extended periods because of resistance to drying and temperature changes6. Data regarding such species in the pulp space of infected human deciduous teeth are limited in Indian scenario and is of importance since the complex root canal anatomy may limit the efficacy of chemomechanical preparation and root canal medication. Therefore the aim of this study was to identify the selected microorganisms from pulp space of human deciduous teeth with irreversible pulpitis.