Extraradicular infection and apical mineralized biofilm: a systematic review of published case reports

Background/Objectives: Bacterial biofilms on root surfaces outside the apical foramen are linked to refractory apical periodontitis, as microorganisms can survive in extraradicular areas and cause persistent infections. This study aimed to precisely evaluate the relationship between extraradicular biofilm and persistent periapical periodontitis through an overview of case reports. Methods: A systematic search of PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, Embase and ScienceDirect databases was conducted up to June 2023. Keywords included “extraradicular infection”, “wet canal”, “wet canals”, “extraradicular mineralized biofilms”, and “calculus-like deposit”. Only case reports meeting the inclusion criteria were analyzed. Results: Fifteen cases of extraradicular infection were identified, involving eight women and six men aged between 18 and 60 years. These cases included nine failed treatments confirmed through complementary methods such as histobacteriologic analysis, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), or polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Among these, four patients (six teeth) exhibited calculus-like deposits. Conclusions: Extraradicular biofilm is strongly associated with failed endodontic treatments, leading to persistent infections. A structured decision-making approach is essential. Before considering apical surgery, clinicians should prioritize intraradicular infection control through thorough irrigation, antimicrobial medicaments, and adjunctive disinfection techniques. When extraradicular biofilms or mineralized calculus are present, and symptoms persist after optimal intracanal disinfection, apical surgery should be performed.