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Review
. 2018 Sep 22;6(4):49.
doi: 10.3390/dj6040049.

Historical and Contemporary Perspectives on the Microbiological Aspects of Endodontics

James L Gutmann  1 , Vivian Manjarrés  2
Affiliations
Review

Historical and Contemporary Perspectives on the Microbiological Aspects of Endodontics

James L Gutmann et al. Dent J (Basel). .

Abstract

The microbiota of the oral cavity plays a significant role in pulpal and periapical diseases. Historically, 100 years ago little was known on microbiota, but after a century of investigations, only now can many of the intimate secrets of microbial growth, expansion, persistence, communal activities, and virulence be revealed. However, with the capabilities of the microbiota for mutation, quorum sensing, and information transference, researchers are hard-pressed to keep up with both the changes and challenges that an amazingly wide range of bacterial species pose for both the scientist and clinician. Fortunately, the development and expansion of a vast array of molecular biological investigative techniques have enabled dentistry and its associated medical fields to attempt to keep pace with the wide and fascinating world of oral microbiology.

Keywords: anachoresis; bacteria; biofilms; culturing; extraradicular infections; focal infection; history; microbiology; molecular biology.

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Conflict of interest statement

The authors declare no conflict of interest.

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