Osteomyelitis of the mandible after endodontic treatment with arsenic trioxide in a paediatric patient

Although several case reports have described the local and systemic hazards associated with the use of arsenic trioxide, and despite the availability of vital pulp extirpation method, some dentists in certain areas of the world continue to use arsenic trioxide. Aim of this case report was to present the occurrence of osteomyelitis with Arsenic Trioxide use in the jaws of children. Root canal therapy was initiated in an 8-year old girl with the application of arsenic trioxide paste and her tooth to be extracted lately. Alveolar bone surrounding the extraction site and attached gingiva were infected. The sequestrum and the germ of the mandibular right second permanent molar was also extracted during the procedure. At the 6-month follow-up visit, the mandibular right second premolar was decided for extraction due to a poor prognosis. We believe that practitioners who continue to use arsenic trioxide, especially in paediatric patients, should abandon its use.