Abstract : Endodontic sealers require biocompatibility and insolubility as well as close sealing. In this study, we examined the biocompatibility of the resin-based sealers, Superbond sealer (SB) and AH Plus sealer (AP). Each sealer was set in disc molds. The specimens after setting for 24 hours were prepared as a fresh group, and the discs washed for 7 days after setting were used as a washed group. Proliferation and differentiation assays were performed using human periodontal ligament cells (HPDLC) cultured on these discs. HPDLC cultured on washed SB discs showed proliferation, while the growth of cells on fresh SB, washed AP, or fresh AP was almost completely inhibited. SEM observation revealed tight attachment of HPDLC on the surface of washed SB, but no cells on washed AP. The gene expression of osteocalcin in HPDLC cultured on washed SB in osteogenic differentiation medium (DM) was upregulated. These results suggested that both SB and AP inhibited the cell growth initially after setting, but 7 days of washing of SB allowed HPDLC to proliferate on it, while AP still continued to elute cytotoxic components even after washing. Furthermore, washed SB would enable HPDLC on it to differentiate into cementoblast/osteoblast-like cells when cultured in DM.

Abstract : A case of non-odontogenic toothache associated with periapical periodontitis is described. Myofacial pain (MFP) of masticatory muscles is widely believed to be the most frequently occurring orofacial pain of non-odontogenic toothache. It has also long been known that MFP could mimic pulpitic symptoms. Past studies have shown that MFP is a relatively prevalent condition among the general population and that it is most often misdiagnosed by dentists as odontogenic toothache. This case report describes an examination, diagnosis and treatment plan to overcome a case of myofacial pain syndrome with non-odontogenic toothache accompanying periapical periodontitis.

Abstract : X-ray photograph analysis and an electric pulp test are clinically effective methods for diagnosing the causal tooth of a fistula. However, the methods are not effective if the causal tooth has been treated with coronal restoration ; when there is unclear radiopacity, a definitive diagnosis is more difficult. In this case with lateral canal-derived periapical lesion, it was difficult to diagnose the causal tooth.