Effect of different root canal procedures on bacteria in infected teeth

Bacterial Reduction After Supplementary Disinfection Procedures in Infected Root Canals

Not applicable Interventional University of Iowa · NCT06569329

This study is testing three different root canal treatments to see which one is best at reducing bacteria in infected teeth.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment90 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 95 Years
SexAll
SponsorUniversity of Iowa Academic / other
Locations1 site (Iowa City, Iowa)
Trial IDNCT06569329 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study investigates the impact of three distinct root canal procedures on bacterial levels in teeth diagnosed with dental pulp necrosis. A total of 90 adult participants will be recruited, with strict inclusion and exclusion criteria to ensure the selection of appropriate cases. The interventions include the GentleWave System, EdgePro Laser Therapy, and ProUltra Piezo Ultrasonic Therapy, with bacterial samples collected under aseptic conditions to assess the effectiveness of each method in reducing infection.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are adults aged 18 and older with teeth diagnosed with pulp necrosis and apical periodontitis.

Not a fit: Patients with vital pulp, incomplete root formation, or other specified dental conditions will not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved root canal treatment outcomes by identifying the most effective disinfection procedures for infected teeth.

How similar studies have performed: While there have been studies on root canal procedures, this specific comparison of three different disinfection methods is relatively novel.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Diagnosis of pulp necrosis with apical periodontitis (AP) confirmed by pulp tests, clinical and radiographic evidence.
* Tooth with no response to cold and electric pulp testing (done at screening).
* Single canalled premolars with intact pulp chamber walls.
* Patient must be 18 years of age or older

Exclusion Criteria:

* Teeth with vital pulp.
* Teeth with incomplete root formation (immature with apical periodontitis).
* Teeth with extensive crown destruction.
* Teeth with previous endodontic treatment or intervention (pulp debridement).
* Teeth with acute/ chronic apical abscess.
* Teeth with internal or external resorption.
* Teeth with non-odontogenic facial pain.
* Teeth with periodontal pockets deeper than 4 mm.
* Teeth with advanced untreated periodontal disease or recent periodontal surgery.
* Teeth with mobility score greater than 2.
* Teeth with a fracture or visible crack.
* Patients with diabetes or immune compromised conditions.
* Patients who received systemic antibiotics within the last 3 months.
* Patients taking corticosteroids.
* Patients who are pregnant.

Where this trial is running

Iowa City, Iowa

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Dental Pulp Necroses
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.