what is the carcinogenic effect of formacresol when used in root canal treatment?

Question

is there any rule for formacresol in development of cancer when it be used as amedication under atemporary filling between visits during root canal treatment ?

Answer 1

Hi! Years ago this chemical was uses between root canal treatments (often 2-3 visits per a tooth) to kill any existing nerve until all the canals were cleaned out and treated. However, over the years, dentist learned of the dangers and limited the use and how it is used today. In stead of using the actual liquid, the cotton pellet is dipped in the liguid and then dried on a cotton roll and the vapors from the pellet are used to do the same job. This is timed by the dentist and then removed. So the existing pellet is no longer in the tooth itself. I know some dentists that will only use this in extreme cases the tooth may have auxiliary canals and the patient is still in pain. I rarely use it.
When the invention of a therma-fill product most root canals can be done in 1 visit. So very rarely is this even needed. I can count on one hand the number of times I have used this in the last year. So please don't worry, unless your dentist is not up on the latest, this is NOT a concern if done properly and with caution. If you have any other questions, please ask. Marie.

Answer 2

HELLO,
AS MARIE D., CORRECTLY STATED THERE IS NO REASON FOR CONCERN WHEN USING THE MODERN ENDODONTIC (ROOT CANAL) PROCEDURES.

PURE LIQUID FORMALIN-A COMPONENT OF FORMOCREASOL, MUMMIFIES TISSUES.