Validation of an Er,Cr:YSGG Laser-Assisted Endodontic Protocol (EdgePro) Using a Rapid, Real-Time ATP Assay Test

An AAE25 To the Point Lecture, sponsored by Brasseler USA
Hynes Convention Center, Floor 1, Room 109

Justin Kolnick, DDS

Bacterial testing in root canal systems faces challenges. Culture techniques are tedious and time-consuming, while DNA-based methods like PCR detect DNA from dead cells, leading to false positives. Research on extracted teeth with artificial biofilm may not accurately reflect clinical patient treatment, despite providing useful insights into endodontic protocols’ effectiveness.

A new ATP assay method quickly identifies organic residues in root canals by detecting ATP, ADP, and AMP through luminescent reactions. The luminescence is measured within 10 seconds and shown as a 0 – 100 Endoscore, with lower scores indicating less bacterial contamination.

Rapid identification of biologic activity in canals helps endodontists assess and adjust their endodontic protocols in real time and indicates when the root canal system is ready for obturation. This presentation will review the ATP assay detection method and demonstrate how this test validates an Er,Cr:YSGG laser-assisted endodontic protocol (EdgePro) for the cleaning and disinfecting of complex root canal systems. Clinical cases will be presented illustrating the role that the test can play in the management of different clinical situations.