Phage Therapy: A Novel Approach to Combat Dental Biofilm and Root Canal Infections
Autour(s)
- Pablo Satterfield
Abstract
Dental biofilm and root canal infections represent significant challenges in modern dentistry, often involving persistent bacterial pathogens such as Enterococcus faecalis and Staphylococcus aureus. Traditional antibiotic therapies face increasing limitations due to antibiotic resistance, necessitating innovative approaches. Phage therapy, employing bacteriophages to selectively target and eliminate bacterial infections, has emerged as a promising medical innovation. This article explores the potential of phage therapy in managing dental biofilm and root canal infections, highlighting recent research, methodologies, and clinical outcomes. Phage therapy, an innovative and promising approach, has emerged as a potential alternative to traditional antimicrobial treatments for combating dental biofilms and root canal infections. Bacteriophages, viruses that selectively infect and lyse bacterial cells, offer a targeted strategy to eradicate pathogenic microorganisms while preserving the beneficial oral microbiota. This method addresses the growing global concern of antibiotic resistance, providing a sustainable and efficient solution for persistent dental infections. Recent studies have demonstrated the efficacy of phage applications in disrupting biofilm formation and eliminating resistant bacterial strains within root canals, highlighting their therapeutic potential in endodontic treatments. As research advances, phage therapy may revolutionize dental care, offering a safer, more precise, and environmentally friendly alternative to conventional antibiotics.