Correlation between red fluorescence values from quantitative light-induced fluorescence and culture-based microbial load in root canals of teeth with necrotic pulp: An exploratory study

Objectives: This study aimed to investigate the correlation between red fluorescence intensity (ΔR values) obtained using quantitative light-induced fluorescence (QLF) and culture-based microbial counts in teeth with necrotic pulp and associated periapical pathology. Methods: Twenty teeth diagnosed with pulp necrosis and apical periodontitis or abscess were included. Sterility control samples were collected from access cavities prior to instrumentation. Pre-instrumentation microbial samples were obtained using sterile paper points and analyzed for red fluorescence intensity using QLF. Following standardized chemomechanical preparation with rotary instrumentation, sodium hypochlorite and EDTA irrigation, post-instrumentation samples were collected and similarly analyzed. All samples were anaerobically cultured to determine colony-forming units (CFUs). Statistical correlation analysis was performed between ΔR values and microbial load. Results: Data analysis is currently underway and results are awaited. Conclusions: QLF-based red fluorescence assessment has potential as a rapid, chairside surrogate marker for microbial load within root canals. Validation of this approach may support improved clinical decision-making during endodontic disinfection procedures.