Microflora in teeth associated with apical periodontitis: a methodological observational study comparing two protocols and three microscopy techniques

Both protocols had merits and de-merits. The combination of microscopy techniques offered complementary views of intra-radicular bacterial colonization. The perception of confinement of the host/microbial interface at the apical foramen is not entirely correct; PMNs may be found even in the coronal third of root canals containing necrotic pulp tissue.