Evaluation of the Clinical and Radiographic Success of Different Antibiotic Combinations in Lesion Sterilization and Tissue Repair Therapy for Infected Primary Molar Teeth

Abstract

This study aimed to assess the clinical and radiographic success of lesion sterilization and tissue repair (LSTR) therapy with different antibiotic combinations, focusing on evaluating whether the alternative combination of clindamycin instead of minocycline is as effective as the standard 3Mix-MP formulation. The study included 50 mandibular primary molars from 43 children (aged 4–10) with irreversible pulpitis or necrosis. Follow-ups were conducted at 1, 3, 6, 9, and 12 months to assess clinical and radiographic outcomes. No significant differences were found between the clinical, radiographic, and overall success rates of 3Mix-MP and Alternative 3Mix-MP at 12 months (p = 1.000, p = 0.612, p = 1.000). A significant decrease in success rates for the 3Mix-MP group was observed over time (p = 0.029, p = 0.003, p = 0.019). Primary second molars were more successful than primary first molars at 12 months (p = 0.011). Clinical success (90%) was greater than radiographic success (74%) throughout the follow-up period. Comparable success was observed with both 3Mix-MP and Alternative 3Mix-MP mixture, where clindamycin replaced minocycline, suggesting that it is a viable alternative. These findings support LSTR therapy as a reliable method for non-instrumental endodontic treatment, with alternative antibiotic combinations offering a safe and effective option.