Abstract

Abstract: Intracanal medicaments in the fields of endodontics are important for the disinfection of the root canal after cleaning and shaping. Since irrigation from chemicals such as sodium hypochlorite may not disinfect the root canal fully, medicaments can be used. The mixture of ciprofloxacin, metronidazole, and minocycline into Triple Antibiotic Paste (TAP) in a 1:1:1 ratio has been used as an alternative to the most common intracanal medicament, calcium hydroxide. This article aims to explore how TAP contributes to the success of root canal treatment, and the mechanisms of action of each antibiotic included. By inhibiting DNA replication through the inhibition of DNA topoisomerase and DNA-gyrase of bacteria by ciprofloxacin, inhibiting protein synthesis by metronidazole, and inhibition of protein synthesis and the stimulation of osteoblastic cells by minocycline, TAP fulfills the roles of an intracanal medicament. It is a healthy alternative as a root disinfectant and is effective through its antibacterial properties.