Activation techniques in antimicrobial photodynamic therapy for retreatment of apical periodontitis
Official title: Molecular and Clinical Evaluation of the Effects of Antimicrobial Photodynamic Therapy Applied Using Different Activation Techniques on the Microbiota and Host Response in Previously Root Canal-Treated Teeth With Apical Periodontitis
Run by Karadeniz Technical University · NCT07921277 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This trial tests whether different methods of agitating methylene blue during antimicrobial photodynamic therapy can improve healing and reduce infection in teeth that prior root canals had treated for asymptomatic apical periodontitis.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years to 65 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 60 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | Karadeniz Technical University Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Trabzon, Ortahisar) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | October 1, 2026 |
| Main results expected | December 30, 2026 |
| Study ends | May 2027 |
| Registry record updated | November 6, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT07921277 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Adults 18-65 with asymptomatic apical periodontitis requiring nonsurgical retreatment, without systemic disease or pregnancy, and able to attend 12-month follow-up.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients with complex root anatomy, radiographic lesions larger than 5 mm, or contraindications to the proposed procedures may not benefit.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
In this randomized study, 60 adults undergoing nonsurgical retreatment for asymptomatic apical periodontitis are assigned to one of four groups: no extra agitation, standard syringe agitation, passive ultrasonic irrigation, or laser-assisted irrigation during antimicrobial photodynamic therapy with methylene blue. Samples are collected at three treatment stages to analyze microbiology, inflammation, and healing, with a subset undergoing metagenomic sequencing. All participants receive the same photosensitizer and light activation using the FotoSan device, and are followed for 12 months. The goal is to determine if more effective agitation methods enhance clinical outcomes and microbiological control compared with basic aPDT.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the study could identify agitation techniques that improve root canal disinfection and healing in retreatment cases.
How similar studies have gone: Prior work on photoactivated disinfection suggests microbiological and clinical benefits in endodontics, but this study tests multiple agitation methods in retreatment, which is relatively novel.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Adults aged 18-65 years. * No history of systemic disease. * Non-smokers. * Not pregnant or breastfeeding. * Provision of written informed consent. * Willingness to attend follow-up appointments for 12 months Exclusion Criteria: * Teeth with internal or external root resorption. * Teeth with moderate or severe root canal curvature. * Teeth with open apices. * Teeth with periodontal probing depths ≥4 mm. * Teeth in which adequate rubber dam isolation cannot be achieved. * Teeth considered non-restorable. * Teeth requiring post retention. * Teeth with radiographically determined periapical lesions larger than 5. * Systemic antibiotic or anti-inflammatory medication use within the preceding month.
Where it's running
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Karadeniz Technical University Faculty of Dentistry
Trabzon, Ortahisar, Turkey (Türkiye) Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Nihan Çelik Uzun, Assistant Professor — Karadeniz Technical University Faculty of Dentistry
- Study coordinator: Nihan Çelik Uzun, Assistant Professor
- Email: nihancelik@ktu.edu.tr
- Phone: +90 5557256407
Similar studies
Other studies for the same condition or treatment. Recruiting studies are listed first.
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Conventional and nano-metronidazole irrigation with or without ultrasonic activation for necrotic single-rooted teeth with apical periodontitis
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This trial tests whether intracanal cryotherapy with cold saline after endodontic retreatment reduces postoperative pain and inflammatory biomarkers in adults with a single-rooted mandibular premolar and asymptomatic apical periodontitis.
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This study tests whether using different apical motion modes on endodontic motors during root canal work changes postoperative pain in adults with chronic apical periodontitis.
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This study tests whether two different irrigation approaches and activation methods change postoperative pain after a single-visit retreatment in adults with a prior root canal.
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.