Caries susceptibility of endodontically versus nonendodontically treated teeth.

Introduction: The aim of the present investigation was to evaluate the caries susceptibility of endodontically versus nonendodontically treated teeth in relation to dental plaque-related factors.

Methods: Twenty patients with 2 endodontically treated teeth (ETT) each were examined regarding cariogenic microflora of proximal plaque, in situ plaque pH drop after a sucrose rinse (Stephan curve), and de novo plaque formation. Recurrent caries and the quality of the coronal fillings/crowns of these teeth were also evaluated. ETT were compared with contralateral, nonendodontically treated teeth (NETT).

Results: Irrespective to the type of restoration, Streptococcus mutans count, de novo plaque formation, and recurrent caries were higher on the surface of ETT compared with NETT (P < .05). Moreover, the initial (resting) pH in plaque was significantly lower (P < 0.05) in ETT.

Conclusions: ETT showed an increased susceptibility to caries as a result of either alteration in their biological environment or inadequacy of the marginal fit of the dental restoration. Clinicians should be aware of this risk.