Influence of pulpal treatments on cell and tissue reactions in the marginal periodontium.

The effects of pulpal infection and intrapulpal application of calcium hydroxide and antibiotics were evaluated with special reference to cell and tissue reactions in the marginal hard/soft tissue interface in monkeys. Results indicate the pulpal conditions and endodontic dressings influence marginal healing and repair, provided an endodontic-periodontic pathway such as patent dentin tubules is present. These results suggest that permanent endodontic treatment, with an inert material, should be performed before the protective cementum layer is removed. Pulpally aggravated periodontal lesions should therefore not be overlooked in periodontal diagnosis and treatment.