Pulp revascularization of replanted immature dog teeth after treatment with minocycline and doxycycline assessed by laser Doppler flowmetry, radiography, and histology.

This study investigated the effect of topical antibiotic treatment on pulp revascularization in replanted teeth. Thirty-four immature teeth were selected from three young dogs. Baseline radiographs and laser Doppler flowmetry (LDF) readings were obtained. Specimens were randomly divided into four groups: Thirty-eight teeth were extracted, kept dry for 5 min, and either (Group 1) covered with minocycline mixture (G1, n = 11), (Group 2) soaked in doxycycline (G2, n = 11), or (Group 3) soaked in saline (G3-negative control, n = 6), and replanted. Teeth in Group 4 were not extracted (positive control, n = 6). Postoperative radiographs and LDF readings were obtained for 2 months after replantation. After sacrifice, the jaws were collected and processed for light microscopy. Pre- and postreplantation LDF readings and radiographs, and histologic findings were analyzed to assess revascularization. Pulp revascularization occurred in 91% (G1), 73% (G2), and 33% (G3) of the specimens. In conclusion, minocycline facilitates pulp revascularization in replanted immature teeth after replantation. Copyright Blackwell Munksgaard, 2004.