Laser therapy as an adjunct in the treatment of sodium hypochlorite extrusion through a root perforation: a case report

Abstract

Accidental sodium hypochlorite extrusion can occur during endodontic irrigation procedures. The symptoms appear immediately and include severe pain, swelling, and probable tissue necrosis adjacent to the root of the treated tooth. Treatment of sodium hypochlorite extrusion involves immediate and copious saline irrigation to neutralize the area and prescription of analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and antibiotic medications. Low-level laser therapy (LLLT) might be useful as an adjuvant treatment for damaged soft tissues to improve healing. This case report describes the treatment of accidental extrusion of 1% sodium hypochlorite through a root canal perforation in a mandibular incisor during endodontic treatment. The extrusion caused minor swelling within the mentolabial sulcus and a large area of necrosis in the gingivolabial mucosa and right edentulous premolar area. Conventional treatment was performed in association with LLLT. Clinical and radiographic examinations after 6 months showed complete healing of the necrotic area without paresthesia and the repair of apical tissues.

Keywords: irrigation; laser therapy; sodium hypochlorite.