Interappointment pain: mechanisms, diagnosis, and treatment

Comparing the Effects of Intramuscular Injections of Dexamethasone and Ketorolac Tromethamine on Post-treatment Endodontic Pain: An In Vivo Study

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

Pain is the primary reason dental patients seek endodontic therapy. Post-treatment endodontic discomfort is a sequelae of periapical inflammation and anti-inflammatory drugs such as corticosteroids and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) would be reasonable therapy options. The purpose of this study was to compare and assess the efficacy of intramuscular injections of dexamethasone and ketorolac tromethamine versus placebo in reducing post-treatment endodontic pain in individuals undergoing root canal treatment.

METHODOLOGY

Patients diagnosed with symptomatic irreversible pulpitis were selected. Nonsurgical endodontic therapy was carried out in a single visit. After completion of the root canal therapy, the patients were randomly assigned to one of the three groups for intramuscular drug administration. In group 1, 2 ml of sterile saline was administered, in group 2, 1 ml of 4 mg dexamethasone was administered; and in group 3, 1 ml of 30 mg ketorolac tromethamine was administered. Preoperative and postoperative pain intensity was measured by a verbal rating scale. Postoperatively, the incidence and severity of pain were recorded after four, 24, and 48 hours.

RESULTS

All three groups showed a highly statistically significant reduction in pain scores when compared to preoperative levels. At the end of four hours, dexamethasone and ketorolac tromethamine showed highly significant results. Dexamethasone significantly reduced pain after 24 hours when compared to ketorolac and placebo groups. At the conclusion of 48 hours, all three groups experienced a gradual decrease in pain levels.

CONCLUSION

Effective and complete debridement of infected root canal system provides predictable gradual reduction of post-endodontic pain.

Postoperative pain of minimally invasive root canal treatment:a randomized clinical trial

This randomized clinical trial compared postoperative pain between a minimally invasive (MP) and conventional root canal treatment protocol (CP). A total of 170 mature permanent teeth (either with vital or necrotic pulp), were randomly assigned into two groups. In the CP group, ProTaper Gold (Dentsply Sirona, Ballaigues, Switzerland) and a continuous wave of condensation technique were used, whereas, in the MP group, TruNatomy (Dentsply Sirona), ultrasonic-assisted irrigation (UI), calcium hydroxide, and a sealer-based obturation technique were used. Patients recorded preoperative and postoperative pain using a 0-10 numerical rating scale (NRS) at 4 h, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, and 7 days after instrumentation and 1 day after canal obturation, respectively. There were no significant differences in pain intensity at any time points assessed between the two groups (p > 0.05). The occurrence of moderate/intense pain after instrumentation was significantly associated with preoperative periapical index (PAI) (p = 0.017) and NRS scores (p < 0.001). Preoperative pulp status (p = 0.009) and NRS score (p = 0.006) were identified as significant factors in the occurrence of moderate/intense pain after obturation. Instrumentation unequivocally reduced pain severity for both groups. The post-endodontic pain associated with the use of MP, combined with UI, Ca(OH)2, and calcium-silicate cement, did not differ from that of CP. Preoperative pain score, PAI, and preoperative pulp status were determined to be prognostic factors for postoperative pain.

Postendodontic Pain Using Single File System with Different Irrigation Protocols in Single-visit Root Canal Treatment: A Randomized Control Trial

AIM

To evaluate the intensity of postendodontic pain (PEP) using final irrigation with side-vented needle (SV), EndoActivator (EA), and Ultra X (UX) in single-visit endodontics (SVE) with F-One rotary files.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A total 150 patients indicated for endodontic treatment were selected. Single-visit endodontics treatment was performed under local anesthesia. For the final irrigation protocol, they were divided into three groups: group I (SV), group II (EA), and group III (UX). The severity of PEP was assessed using visual analogue scale (VAS) score after 6, 12, 24, and 48 hours. Analgesics taken by patients, for pain, were also recorded. Finally, the data were tabulated and statistically analyzed using SPSS 20.0 software at a level of significance being 0.05.

RESULTS

Postendodontic pain was less in group III (UX) and group II (EA) compared with group I (SV) at 6 and 12 hours, which is statistically significant (p < 0.05). There was no statistically significant difference found after 24 hours and 48 hours.

CONCLUSION

The intensity of PEP was minimum in patients treated with EndoActivator and ultrasonic along with single rotary file systems. The incidence of analgesic intake was similar in all three groups. How to cite this article: Kathiria NV, Attur K, Bagda KM, et al. Postendodontic Pain Using Single File System with Different Irrigation Protocols in Single-visit Root Canal Treatment: A Randomized Control Trial. J Contemp Dent Pract 2024;25(2):180-185.

The effect of the irrigant activation protocol on postoperative pain in maxillary incisors with asymptomatic apical periodontitis: A three-arm randomized clinical trial

OBJECTIVES

This study aimed to compare the effects of three irrigation activation systems (IAS) on postoperative pain (PP) in activating three final irrigants: sodium hypochlorite 5.25%, ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid 17%, and chlorhexidine 2%.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This parallel randomized clinical trial included referred patients with asymptomatic large-sized apical lesion incisors. A standard method was followed in the canal cleaning and shaping for all included patients in the study. Then, the patients were randomly assigned (1:1 allocation) into three groups: G1 (n = 20) with passive ultrasonic irrigation activation; G2 (n = 20) with XP-Endo Finisher file activation; and G3 (n = 20) with diode laser (810 nm) activation. PP was estimated in all groups using a visual analog scale after 1, 3, 7, and 14 days of treatment. Comparisons between the groups were made using the Kruskal-Wallis test, whereas the Mann-Whitney U test was used in the pairwise comparisons.

RESULTS

Sixty patients were followed-up in this trial. There were significant differences between the groups in terms of PP After 1, 3, and 7 days of treatment (p = 0.002, p = 0.017, and p = 0.006, respectively). On the first day of treatment, G3 showed the lowest PP compared with G1 and G2 (p = 0.007 and p = 0.001, respectively). On the third day of treatment, G3 showed less PP compared with G2 (p = 0.005). On the seventh day of treatment, G2 showed the highest PP compared with G1 and G3 (p = 0.012 and p = 0.003, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

The XP-Endo Finisher file caused the highest PP level especially in the next day and 3 days of the treatment, whereas the diode laser had the lowest PP level during the first week of treatment. It is noteworthy that PP disappeared completely after 2 weeks of treatment with all three IASs.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

The trial was registered in the ISRCTN registry (Trial ID: SRCTN99457940).

Postoperative pain after root canal filling with bioceramic sealers: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials

The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis (SRM) was to assess postoperative pain (PP) after endodontic treatment with bioceramic root canal sealer compared to AH Plus® sealer. This SRM was carried out in accordance with the items on the PRISMA 2020 checklist and Cochrane guidelines and registered in PROSPERO (CRD42021259283). Only randomized clinical trials (RCTs) were included. Meta-analysis was conducted using R software, the standardized means difference (SMD) measure of effect was calculated for quantitative variables, and the odds ratio (OR) for binary variables. The Cochrane tool (RoB 2.0) was used to assess the risk of bias, and the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) approach was used to assess the quality of evidence. Qualitative and quantitative analysis included 18 and 17 studies, respectively. For quantitative variables, the bioceramic root canal sealer presented less occurrence of postoperative pain than the AH Plus® sealer in 24 h (SMD - 0.17 [- 0.34; - 0.01], p = 0.0340). For binary variables, there was no difference observed between the sealers evaluated, except for sealer extrusion where the bioceramic group had lower post-filling material extrusion (OR 0.52 [0.32; 0.84], p = 0.007). Regarding the risk of bias analysis, low risk was observed for most domains, except allocation that was considered unclear, while the certainty of evidence ranged from moderate to low. The results showed that bioceramics sealers reduced postoperative endodontic pain only after 24 h and showed less sealer extrusion compared to the AH Plus® sealer. However, more robust and standardized clinical trials are needed to confirm the results with less heterogeneity and higher quality of evidence.

Endodontic Flare-Ups: An Update

Root canal treatment deals with mechanical and chemical cleaning followed by obturation that promotes healing and repair of periradicular tissues. Flare-ups can occur in between or some days after endodontic therapy leading to unscheduled visit by the patient. This complication is characterized by severe pain and/ or swelling. There is a correlation between number of appointments, intracanal medicament used and flare-ups. However, there is no sure procedure that can avoid this complication. Therefore, this review article has discussed about causes and some procedures to prevent and treat flare-ups.

Effect of EDDY and manual dynamic activation techniques on postoperative pain in non-surgical retreatment: a randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND

During non-surgical retreatment process, the products such as dentin debris, root canal fillings, irrigation solutions, microorganisms and remaining pulp tissues can extrude to the apical area and can cause the postoperative pain and flare-up. Thus, the aim of this study was to evaluatethe effect of EDDY and manual dynamic activation (MDA) techniques on postoperative pain (PP) associated with retreatment.

METHODS

Ninety patients scheduled for retreatment were treated at a single visit. Non-vital mandibular premolar teeth diagnosed with asymptomatic apical periodontitis were included in this study. The patients were divided into two groups (n = 45) on the basis of the need for additional irrigation activation procedures (EDDY and MDA). The patients' post-treatment pain levels were asked to rate the intensity of their pain on a 10-point numerical rating scale (NRS) at the 12th, 24th, 48th, and 72nd h and 7 days.The data were analyzed using the chi-square and Wilcoxon signed-rank test was used for within-group comparisons and Mann Whitney U test was used to compare the groups by time period.

RESULTS

The difference in postoperative pain intensity between two groups was statistically significant at 12, 24, 48, and 72 h (p < 0.05). There was no significant difference at 7 days. Moreover, no statistically significant difference was found between the two groups in terms of gender and analgesic medication intake (p > 0.05). Pain intensity after the treatment was lesser in the MDA groupthanin the EDDY group at 12, 24, 48, and 72 h.

CONCLUSION

This study could lead us to conclude that the two activation systems can be used during endodontic retreatment with no difference at PP 7 days later. However, a comparison of the groups indicated that the EDDY resulted in significantly more PP at 12, 24, 48, and 72 h. Trial registration ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT04726670.

Comparison of the incidence of postoperative pain in single sitting root canal treatment after using two reciprocating systems and two continuous rotary systems: An in vivo study

Aim

The aim of the present study was to compare the incidence of postoperative pain in single sitting root canal treatment after using two reciprocating and two continuous rotating file systems.

Methodology

One hundred and four permanent mandibular canine and first premolar teeth were selected for the study and were divided into two groups 1 and 2 comprising 52 teeth each. Group 1 was treated using reciprocating file systems and was subdivided into two subgroups A and B using WaveOne Gold (WOG) and Reciproc Blue (RB), respectively. Group 2 was treated using continuous rotating file systems and was divided into two subgroups A and B using One Curve (OC) and Vortex Blue (VB), respectively. Treatments were performed in a single sitting. After the visit, the patients were given a prescription for ibuprofen 400 mg to be taken every 6 h if they experience pain. Participants were asked to rate the intensity of the postoperative pain on a visual analog scale according to four classes (no pain, mild pain, moderate pain, and severe pain) after 24 h, 48 h, 72 h, and 7 days. Patients were also asked to record the number of prescribed analgesic medication tablets taken at these time points.

Results

There was a statistically significant difference (P = 0.00) among the reciprocating file systems and continuous file systems regarding the incidence of postoperative pain after 24, 48, and 72 h which signifies that pain incidence and duration is less with respect to reciprocation instrumentation as compared to continuous instrumentation.

Conclusion

The use of Reciproc instrumentation system (WOG and RB) showed significantly less intensity and duration of posttreatment pain compared to the single-file rotary system (OC and VB) in patients with symptomatic irreversible pulpitis with apical periodontitis.

Comparison of pretreatment gabapentin and pregabalin to control postoperative endodontic pain - a double-blind, randomized clinical trial

BACKGROUND

Postoperative endodontic pain is an enigma for the dentist. This study aimed to evaluate the analgesic effect of 300 mg gabapentin or 75 mg pregabalin in reducing postoperative endodontic pain compared with a placebo.

METHODS

Ninety patients who needed root canal treatment with an initial numerical rating scale (NRS) pain score of > 4 (T0) were randomly divided into three groups (n=30). Patients were then administered either 300 mg gabapentin (group A), 75 mg pregabalin (group B), or a placebo (group C) 30 min prior to the start of endodontic treatment. A single operator performed single-visit endodontics, and pain was evaluated immediately after endodontic treatment (T1) and at 4 h (T2), 8 h (T3), 12 h (T4), 24 h (T5), 48 h (T6), and 72 h (T7) using the NRS. Ibuprofen/paracetamol (400 mg/325 mg) was administered as a rescue dose if needed.

RESULTS

Pregabalin performed significantly better when compared with gabapentin at all time points except at 72 h after treatment (P=0.170). The placebo group showed significantly higher pain scores than the other two groups. The percentage of pain relief was maximum for pregabalin (92.1%), followed by gabapentin (87.6%) and placebo (69.1%) at 72 h after treatment completion.

CONCLUSION

This study showed that pretreatment with a single dose of pregabalin and gabapentin both had greater analgesic effects than a placebo. They can be effectively used to reduce postoperative endodontic pain.

Postoperative pain after SWEEPS, PIPS, sonic and ultrasonic-assisted irrigation activation techniques: a randomized clinical trial

To investigate the efficacy of a new laser irrigation activation system [shock wave-enhanced emission photo-acoustic streaming (SWEEPS)] in terms of postoperative pain after primary root canal treatment compared with other techniques, namely photon-induced photo-acoustic streaming (PIPS), sonic system with EDDY, passive ultrasonic system (PUI), and manual dynamic activation (MDA). Two hundred patients with symptomatic irreversible pulpitis in mandibular premolar teeth were enrolled and randomly allocated to five different irrigation activation groups (n = 40) after chemo-mechanical root canal preparation. For irrigation activation, the SWEEPS and PIPS tips were attached to the Er-YAG laser system in the respective groups, while the Irrisafe tip was used in the PUI group and the EDDY tip in the sonic group. In the MDA group, irrigation was agitated with the master gutta-percha cone. At postoperative hours 8, 24, and 48 and on day 7, pain intensity was evaluated using the 10-mm Visual Analog Scale (VAS) and analgesic intake was recorded. The Kruskal-Wallis test was used to analyze the VAS scores, and pain prevalence and analgesic intake were examined with the Pearson's chi-square test at the 5% significance level. The PIPS and SWEEPS groups had the lowest level and prevalence of pain when compared to the remaining groups (P < 0.001). The PUI, sonic and MDA groups did not differ in terms of pain scores at hours 8 and 48 (P > 0.05). On day 7, the highest score and pain prevalence were recorded in the MDA group (P < 0.001). There was no difference between the groups in terms of analgesic intake (P > 0.05). Laser-activated irrigation systems provided lower postoperative pain scores and levels compared to the other activation systems. The MDA group had the highest pain scores and incidence at the end of the seventh day.

Microbial analysis of endodontic infections in teeth with post-treatment apical periodontitis before and after medication

This study aimed to determine the intraradicular microbiota of previously root canal-treated teeth with apical periodontitis and to investigate the antibacterial effectiveness of different intracanal medicaments. Sixteen patients with post-treatment apical periodontitis were allocated into two groups according to the intracanal medicament used: calcium hydroxide (CH) and 2% chlorhexidine gluconate gel (CHX) group. Total bacterial loads, as well as the amount of Enterococcus faecalis (E. faecalis) were determined before (S1) and after (S2) chemomechanical preparation and finally, after intracanal medication (S3) by means of ddPCR. The unpaired t test was used to compare parametric. S3-total bacteria copy number of the CH group was lower than the CHX group (p < 0.05). There was no statistical difference between the CHX- and the CH groups in terms of E.faecalis copy number (p > 0.05). But in terms of total bacteria, CH is better than CHX. Consequently, CH can be used to optimise the antibacterial efficiency of chemomechanical preparation in previously root canal-treated teeth with apical periodontitis.

Assessment of Post-operative Pain after using EdgeFile X7 and Protaper Next Rotary Systems in Patients with Symptomatic Pulpitis in Mandibular Molars: A Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial

AIM: The aim of the study was to evaluate the incidence of post-operative pain and analgesics intake after single-visit endodontic treatment using Edge File X7 and ProTaper Next (PTN) rotary files in mandibular molars having symptomatic pulpitis. METHODS: The study included 60 patients complaining of symptomatic pulpitis in mandibular molar teeth. After confirming the diagnosis clinically and radiographically, patients were assigned into two equal groups; Group (I): Instrumentation was done with Edge File X7 (EF) rotary files and Group (II): Instrumentation was done with PTN rotary files. The patients underwent standardized single visit endodontic treatment procedures using 2.5% sodium hypochlorite for irrigation. Modified visual analogue scale was used to access pain preoperatively, and then postoperatively after 6, 12, 24, 48, and 72 h. An analgesic (ibuprofen 400 mg) was prescribed to the patient who suffered from persistent pain. The incidence and/or number of analgesic tablets intake were recorded. Data of pain score were compared using Mann–Whitney U test for intergroup comparisons and Freidman’s test followed by Dunn’s post hoc test for intragroup comparisons. RESULTS: No statistically significant difference was detected between EF and PTN groups regarding the incidence and intensity of pain at different time intervals (p > 0.05). There was a significant reduction in the mean VAS score through the follow-up periods in both groups (p < 0.001). The incidence of analgesic intake was not significant in both groups. CONCLUSION: The incidence of post-operative pain and the analgesic intake in terms of frequency and quantity were found to be similar with both rotary systems for all the post-operative time points.

Influence of vehicle for calcium hydroxide on postoperative pain: a scoping review

This review aims to identify the influence of the vehicle and its concentration used to carry calcium hydroxide (Ca(OH)₂) medicament on postoperative pain.

The protocol for this review was registered in the open science framework (Registration DOI-10.17605/OSF.IO/4Y8A9) and followed the guidelines provided by the Joanna Briggs Institute. Reporting was based on the preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses extension for scoping reviews (PRISMA-ScR). Literature screening and searches were performed on PubMed/Medline, Scopus, and EBSCO hosts. Furthermore, additional records were manually analyzed using various sources. The selected studies were published in English and included the use of any vehicle adjunct to Ca(OH)₂ to evaluate postoperative pain using qualitative and quantitative pain assessment tools. Descriptive analysis was conducted to review the study design, vehicle elements, and their effects.

A preliminary search yielded 7584 studies, of which 10 were included. According to the data collected, the most commonly used Ca(OH)₂ vehicles were chlorhexidine (CHX), normal saline, and camphorated paramonochlorophenol/glycerine (CPMC/glycerine), which had a significant effect on postoperative pain. Among the included studies, six evaluated the effect of CHX as a vehicle. It was observed that a higher concentration of the vehicle (2%) showed a favorable response in reducing postoperative pain.

A majority of studies have validated a positive consequence of using a vehicle on postoperative pain. Although higher vehicle concentrations were found to alter postoperative pain levels, the data were insufficient to draw a firm conclusion. Our scoping review indicates that further clinical studies should focus on using different vehicles at various concentrations and application times to check for feasible and safe exposure in addition to providing pain relief.

Endodontic postoperative flare-up: An update

Endodontic treatment corresponds to a combined chemical and mechanical approach, followed by a three dimensional hermetic obturation, that eliminate the pulpal and periradiculare disease and boost healing and repair of periradiculare tissue. Despite the advances in the endodontic field, the inter-appointment flare up remains a true nightmare that encounters every dentist. This complication commences a few hours or days after root canal procedures and it is characterized by the development of pain and/or swelling, requiring an unscheduled appointment for emergency treatment. Different studies showed that flare-ups represent a multifactorial phenomenon including mechanical, chemical and microbial factors. In addition, a correlation was found between flare-up and age, gender, tooth type, presence of preoperative pain, tooth condition before treatment, irrigation techniques, number of visits as well as intracanal medication. Moreover, some medicine intake was proved to be efficient in controlling this postoperative pain. However, a clear procedure to avoid its occurrence is yet to be established. In this review, we summarize knowledge about the etiology of flare-up and its related factors. This could be effective in helping dentists to adapt some strategies to prevent it.

Clinical and microbiological effects of ultrasonically activated irrigation versus syringe irrigation during endodontic treatment: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials

This study aimed to systematically review clinical and microbiology-related effects of ultrasonically activated irrigation (UAI) compared to syringe irrigation (SI) during endodontic treatment. Electronic databases searching and manual searching were conducted. Only randomized clinical trials (RCTs) were included comparing UAI to SI. The RoB 2.0 Cochrane tool was used for risk-of-bias (RoB) assessment. The main outcomes were postoperative pain, treatment failure, and microbiology-related outcomes. Qualitative and quantitative analyses, wherever applicable, were performed. Risk ratios (RR) and [standardized] mean differences {[S]MD} were calculated for dichotomous and continuous outcomes, respectively. Certainty of evidence (CoE) was assessed using GRADE tool. Ten RCTs were included. UAI reduced pain incidence within the first 24 h (RR 0.50, 95% CI 0.35-0.71, 308 teeth) and microbial counts (SMD_pooled - 0.40, 95% CI [- 0.78, - 0.02], I² = 0%, 126 teeth) than SI in non-vital teeth with apical periodontitis (AP). Both groups, however, had similar effects regarding pain intensity, lipopolysaccharide amounts, and the incidence of rescue-analgesic intake, treatment failure, and microbial presence (p > 0.05). CoE ranged from low to very low. Very limited evidence suggests that UAI could reduce postoperative-pain risk within the first 24 h and microbial counts for non-vital teeth with AP compared to SI. Most meta-analyses, however, are based on very few studies, mostly low-powered, with an overall very-low-to-low CoE. Further well-designed, larger RCTs are, thus, required.

Critical analysis of research methods and experimental models to study removal of root filling materials

Despite enjoying high favourable outcome rates, root canal treatment is not always successful. Root canal retreatment is a widely practised option for managing a non-healing root treated tooth. A basic distinction between retreatment and initial treatment is the requirement to remove the existing root filling material occupying the root canal space. Only then, can the technical deficiencies and possible causes of failure be addressed. Hence, the successful removal of the root filling material is critical to achieving the objectives of retreatment. Many different materials and techniques have been used for root canal filling, which have been documented in a plethora of studies; these are mainly laboratory studies investigating the removal of root filling materials. To help guide future research, which may then better inform clinical practice in relation to retreatment procedures, the focus of this narrative review is on the research methods and experimental models employed to study the removal of root filling materials. The current available literature demonstrates great variation in the research methodologies used to study the removal of root filling material, including direct visualization by splitting tooth samples or clearing, three-dimensional radiographic imaging including using microcomputed tomography or cone-beam computed tomography, and a combination of these techniques. Depending on the research method employed, variation also exists in quantification of root filling material removal; these include measurements of surface area, volume or weight, and criteria-based (semi-quantitative) assessment. Experimental models, using human teeth or resin models, differ with respect to standardization techniques and replication of the clinical scenario including initial sample preparation, canal filling, allocation and technical aspects of retreatment procedures. Future models should replicate, as closely as possible, the clinical scenario. Currently, microcomputed tomography provides a highly detailed, non-invasive and non-destructive method of objectively assessing and quantifying root filling removal.

Pharmacological Management of Acute Endodontic Pain

Pain associated with infections of the tooth pulp and periapical tissues is intense and often the most common reason for patients seeking emergency dental care. Effective management of acute dental pain requires a deep understanding of pain mechanisms, which enables accurate diagnosis and definitive treatment. While drugs are only used as an adjunct to definitive dental treatment, a thorough understanding of their mechanism of action and effectiveness enables clinicians to effectively control intra-operative and post-operative pain and prevent persistent pain. This review describes how pain is detected, processed, and perceived. It also provides information on evidence-based strategies on the use of different classes of drugs to effectively manage endodontic pain.

A prospective cohort study evaluating the outcome of root canal retreatment in symptomatic mandibular first molars with periapical lesions

AIM

To evaluate the impact of various predictors on the outcome of root canal retreatment in symptomatic mandibular first molars with periapical lesions after a minimum of 2 years.

METHODOLOGY

One hundred and twenty previously root canal treated symptomatic mandibular first molars with periapical lesions which were diagnosed as symptomatic apical periodontitis or acute apical abscess with localized intraoral swelling were included. Root canal retreatment was performed by an experienced endodontist using a standardized treatment protocol. The teeth were followed up clinically and radiographically and the radiographic outcome was assessed using a modified periapical index scale (PAI). The cumulative success proportion and the influence of predictors on the outcome of the root canal retreatment were analysed using Kaplan-Meier analyses and log-rank tests, and the hazard ratios for the predictors were also investigated using Univariate Cox Proportional Hazard regression analysis at a significance level of 5%.

RESULTS

Of the 120 teeth, 103 teeth were re-examined with an 85% recall rate. The cumulative success rate was 88% in which 64% were healed and 24% were healing, and failure rate was recorded as 12%. None of the preoperative predictors, including age, gender, soft tissue tenderness, intraoral swelling, size of the lesion, PAI score, apical level and density of root canal filling before root canal retreatment, nor intraoperative predictors, such as active exudate drainage, density of root canal filling after root canal retreatment and restoration type had an influence on the outcome of root canal retreatment (p > .05). The only factor that significantly reduced the success rate of root canal retreatment was the apical level of the root canal filling; when it was more than 2 mm short of the radiographic apex in teeth where apical patency was not established, the success was significantly lower (p = .023).

CONCLUSIONS

Root canal retreatment in symptomatic mandibular first molars with periapical lesions resulted in a success rate of 88%. None of the predictors had a significant influence on the outcome, except for the apical level of the root canal filling after root canal retreatment with short root fillings being associated with significantly more post-treatment endodontic disease.

Comparative Evaluation of Pain Perception in Symptomatic Apical Periodontitis among Smokers and Non-Smokers Patients during Endodontic Treatment. A Clinical Prospective

Introduction:

The most common sequelae of events caused by the bacterial ingress into the tooth structures leading to pain is almost always treated by endodontic therapy, which establishes a correlation between pain and endodontics. There are many host modulatory factors that alter pain response. Smoking is one such factor that has a significant effect on human responses, immune responses, along with the risk of infection.

Methods:

A total of 10 non-smokers and 10 smokers having symptomatic apical periodontitis undergoing root canal treatment were selected. The treatment was divided into four appointments, and the patients were asked to record the interappointment pain level on a VAS scale. The data obtained were analyzed using SPSS version 20 software, and the tests employed were independent sample t-test, post-hoc Bonferroni test.

Results and Discussion:

The interappointment pain levels during the endodontic treatment were found to be higher among smokers than non-smokers. Both the groups initially showed the perception of pain, but even at the end of the treatment, smokers were found to have pain. p-value </= 0.5 was considered significant.

Conclusion:

It was concluded from the study that smokers have a higher level of pain perception when compared to non-smokers.

Glide path enlargement of curved molar canals using HyFlex EDM glide path file versus PathFile: a comparative study of preparation time and postoperative pain

Background

This randomized clinical trial aimed to compare the preparation time and severity of postoperative pain between HyFlex Electric Discharge Machine (EDM) glide path file (GPF) and PathFile.

Methods

Eighty patients whose molar teeth had at least one severely curved canal were treated by the same specialist. After access cavity preparation, the patients were randomly assigned to receive glide path enlargement with either HyFlex EDM GPF or PathFile. ProTaper Next X1 and X2 files were used to prepare the canals. The time of preparation was assessed and the severity of postoperative pain over the next 7 days was recorded. The preparation time and the postoperative pain scores were compared using the Linear Mixed Models (P ≤ 0.05).

Results

Glide path enlargement time was significantly shorter with HyFlex EDM GPF (27.828 ± 2.345 s) than with PathFile (48.942 ± 2.864 s) (P < 0.001). The highest postoperative pain score was recorded on the first day and the pain decreased over time in both groups. HyFlex EDM GPF group patients reported significantly less postoperative pain than PathFile group patients overall (P < 0.001).

Conclusions

Postoperative pain and glide path preparation time could be reduced by using HyFlex EDM GPF system.

Trial registration PKUSSNCT, PKUSSNCT-17B12, Registered 24 October 2017.

Postoperative pain after ultrasonically and laser-activated irrigation during root canal treatment: a randomized clinical trial

AIM

To compare the intensity of postoperative pain after primary root canal treatment of asymptomatic teeth when using ultrasonically (UAI) or laser-activated irrigation (LAI).

METHODOLOGY

In this superiority randomized clinical trial (ClinicalTrials.gov ID: NCT03981237) with parallel design, fifty-six patients with an asymptomatic tooth in need of primary root canal treatment were enrolled. After chemo-mechanical canal preparation using rotary instruments and NaOCl irrigation, teeth were randomly assigned to two groups and patients were blinded to the final irrigation protocol. In the UAI group (n = 28), 60s activation with an Irrisafe tip was done per canal. In the LAI group (n = 28), NaOCl was activated with a pulsed Er:YAG (2940 nm) laser, equipped with a conical tip, with settings of 50 µs, 20 mJ at 15 Hz for 60 s. Patients recorded their pain intensity 6, 24, 48 and 72 h after treatment on a 100 mm visual analogue scale (VAS), as well as their analgesic consumption. Pain levels and incidence were compared across groups using the Mann-Whitney U-test and chi-square test.

RESULTS

Overall, mean postoperative pain intensity was low, with the majority of patients having no or minimal pain 24 h postoperatively. At 6 h postoperatively, pain intensity and incidence were significantly higher in the UAI group compared to the LAI group (P < 0.05). For the other time intervals, no significant differences in postoperative pain incidence or intensity were found. The frequency of analgesic intake did not differ significantly between the two groups. Neither of the activation methods resulted in any adverse effects.

CONCLUSIONS

Ultrasonically and laser-activated irrigation resulted in low and comparable levels of postoperative pain in asymptomatic patients receiving primary root canal treatment.

Effect of XP-endo Shaper versus conventional rotary files on postoperative pain and bacterial reduction in oval canals with necrotic pulps: a randomized clinical study

AIM

To assess postoperative pain and bacterial reduction following the use of XP-endo Shaper versus conventional rotary files in preparation of oval canals with necrotic pulps.

METHODOLOGY

This superiority, parallel, randomized, double blinded clinical trial was conducted in the clinic of the Endodontic Department, Faculty of Dentistry, Cairo University, Egypt. Sixty single-canalled mandibular premolars with necrotic pulps were randomly assigned into two equal groups. Canals were instrumented using XP-endo Shaper files in the intervention group and iRaCe rotary files in the control group. Bacterial samples were taken before and after canal instrumentation. Incidence and severity of postoperative pain was assessed using a modified VAS after 6, 12, 24 h and daily for 5 days. A culture method was used to assess the number of bacterial colony forming units. Incidence of analgesic intake as well as flare-ups was recorded. Data were analysed using chi-square, Fisher Exact, Mann-Whitney, Independent t-test, and Spearman's correlation for pain and bacterial counts.

RESULTS

The XP-endo Shaper compared with the iRaCe group was associated with a significantly lower incidence of postoperative pain at 6, 12, and 24 h (P = 0.039, 0.047, and 0.026, respectively), and severity of postoperative pain at 6 h (mean difference: 1.33, 95% CI: 0.307-2.352, P = 0.02), 12 h (mean difference: 1.1, 95% CI: 0.26-1.936, P = 0.007), 24 h (mean difference: 0.94, 95% CI: 0.178-1.701, P = 0.008) and 48 h (mean difference: 0.97, 95% CI: 0.192-1.747, P = 0.038). There was a significant decrease in bacterial count following canal instrumentation in both groups (P < 0.001) with no significant difference between them (mean difference: 0.83 × 10⁵ , 95% CI: 0.336 × 10⁵ -1.996 × 10⁵ , P = 0.56). A weak correlation existed between postoperative pain severity and bacterial counts (P = 0.54). There was no significant difference in analgesic intake between the two groups (P = 0.085). Flare-ups occurred in 3.3% of teeth in the iRaCe group, while no flare-ups occurred in the XP-endo Shaper group.

CONCLUSIONS

XP-endo Shaper was associated with a significantly lower frequency of postoperative pain for up to 24 h, and lower severity of postoperative pain for up to 48 h compared with iRaCe files. Both systems were equally effective in bacterial reduction from oval root canals with necrotic pulps.

Accuracy and stability of electronic apex locator length measurements in root canals with wide apical foramen: an ex vivo study

The aim of the current study was to determine the accuracy of electronic apex locator (EAL) measurements when using files of different sizes in roots with wide apical foramina while considering a new parameter of stability of EAL reading. Ten teeth with straight roots were subjected to a sequential widening of the apical foramen to 0.6, 0.7, and 0.8 mm. The roots were embedded after each enlargement stage in an alginate mold and subjected to EAL readings. Measurements were done using sequential K-file sizes and the self-adjusting file (SAF). Measurement stability was introduced as a new additional parameter. As the difference between the file size used and the apical diameter of the canal decreases, the results obtained were more accurate and stable. The stability and accuracy of the measurements coincided with each other in a statistically significant manner. Within the limitations of the present ex vivo study, it may be concluded that in straight canals with wide apical foramina of 0.6–0.8 mm, both SS K-files which fit snugly to the walls of apical foramen and the SAF file may offer both accurate and stable EAL measurements.

The effect of sonic activation of irrigant on postoperative pain after root canal treatment in primary molar teeth: a randomized, clinical study

PURPOSE

Postoperative pain following root canal treatment is a concern for pediatric patients and pediatric dentists. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of using sonic activation (SA) on postoperative pain levels after root canal therapy of primary molars.

METHODS

A total of 110 patients aged 5-9 years with symptomatic irreversible pulpitis involving primary molars were included in the study and were randomly divided into two groups according to agitation methods: SA and no sonic activation (NSA). Root canal treatments were completed, and the teeth were restored permanently. Postoperative pain levels were evaluated using the five-face scale at 8, 24, 48, and 72 h and 1 week after treatment. Pain levels and frequency of analgesic intake were recorded and analyzed.

RESULTS

Postoperative pain values were lower in the SA group than in the NSA group at 8, 24, and 48 h after treatment (p < 0.05). No significant difference was observed between the groups in terms of postoperative pain values at 72 h and 1 week after treatment (p > 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

It was determined that the use of SA reduces postoperative pain level significantly after root canal treatment in primary molar teeth.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

The use of SA can be recommended to clinicians since it is effective in the successful management of postoperative pain of root canal treatment in primary molar teeth.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov ID: NCT04197531.

Effect of intracanal cryotreated sodium hypochlorite on postoperative pain after root canal treatment - A randomized controlled clinical trial

Introduction

The postendodontic pain is caused by either microbial, mechanical, or chemical factors or combinations of these. The incidence of postoperative pain ranges from 1.4% to 53%. The management of postendodontic pain is a crucial factor for a successful practitioner. Cryotherapy is a new therapeutic option applied in sports medicine and surgery for the management of pain and for postoperative care.

Aim

The purpose of this study was to evaluate and to compare the effect of intracanal cryotreated sodium hypochlorite and room temperature sodium hypochlorite on postoperative pain after root canal treatment.

Materials and Methods

Sixty-four patients were selected according to inclusion criteria and baseline score was recorded. After obtaining consent, the access cavity was opened under local anesthesia. On the completion of cleaning and shaping, the patients were randomly divided into two groups: Group A: Normal Room temperature NaOCl and Group B: Cryotreated NaOCl (2°C-4°C), each of the canals further received 20 ml of the respective irrigants based on the groups allocated. The final rinse was done with saline, and canals were dried and obturated in the same appointment. Postoperative visual analogue scale pain levels were recorded at 6, 24, and 48 h over the phone.

Results

The data were analyzed using SPSS software. The results of the present study showed that cryotherapy group showed a statistically significant reduction in postoperative pain levels at all tested time intervals and reduced analgesic intake at 6 h postoperatively.

Conclusion

Cryotherapy could be used as an easy and cost-effective technique for controlling postendodontic pain in the day-to-day clinical practice.

Calcium hydroxide intracanal medication effects on pain and flare-up: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Objectives

This study aimed to systematically review the pain and flare-up effects of calcium hydroxide (CH) as intracanal medication (ICM) in non-vital mature teeth.

Materials and Methods

Electronic-databases searching for published and grey literature and manual searching were conducted. Only randomized clinical trials (RCTs) were included comparing CH to other ICMs in non-vital mature teeth. The risk of bias was assessed using the RoB 2.0 Cochrane tool. The main outcomes were pain and flare-up. Qualitative and quantitative analysis, wherever applicable, was performed. The certainty of evidence (CoE) was assessed using Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE).

Results

Sixteen articles were included in 6 comparisons at different time points for different outcomes. CH reduced pain risk than no ICM within the 1-14-days interval (p < 0.05) and than triple-antibiotic paste within the first day (p < 0.05) and was similar to corticosteroid/antibiotics combination (p > 0.05). Chlorhexidine (CHX) or CH/CHX, however, reduced pain levels than CH alone (p < 0.05). CH showed higher flare-up risk than CHX (p < 0.05). CoE, however, ranged from very low to moderate.

Conclusion

Most comparisons for different outcomes are based on very few studies, mostly low-powered, with an overall low CoE. Thus, the available evidence is considered insufficient to either support or refute CH effectiveness or to recommend one ICM over another. Therefore, further well-designed, larger RCTs are required.

Trial Registration

PROSPERO database Identifier: CRD42016041953.

Effect of occlusal reduction on postendodontic pain: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised clinical trials

The purpose of this systematic review was to assess the effect of occlusal reduction on post-operative pain following root canal treatment and was performed in accordance with the PRISMA statement being registered in the PROSPERO database (CRD42018089941). Two reviewers independently conducted a systematic literature search in the PubMed (MEDLINE), Dentistry & Oral Sciences Source and the Cochrane Library databases. Seven studies were included, of which three were used to perform meta-analysis for 6 days post-operative and the rest for qualitative synthesis. Three studies were assessed as low risk of bias, three as some concern, and one as high risk of bias. Occlusal reduction diminishes the post-operative pain (SMD -1.10 (95%CI -2.06, -0.15) I2  = 96.9%) at 6 days for teeth diagnosed as irreversible pulpitis, and, overall, likely reduces post-operative pain for patients presenting with irreversible pulpitis and/or symptomatic apical periodontitis. Future high-quality clinical trials are needed to better understand the role of occlusal reduction.

Postoperative Pain after Treatment Using the GentleWave System: A Randomized Controlled Trial

INTRODUCTION

Cleaning and shaping are necessary to allow for the delivery of irrigants and medicaments to the apical third of the canal. Standard treatment irrigation generally uses a conventional needle and some frequency of sonic activation. The GentleWave System (GWS; Sonendo, Inc, Laguna Hills, CA) combines irrigant delivery with multisonic activation. This randomized clinical trial aimed to determine if the GWS significantly decreases the incidence and intensity of postoperative pain.

METHODS

Patients used a numeric rating scale to record their pain level at the 6-hour time point before treatment. All participants were randomly divided into 2 groups and were blind to the treatment they received. The standard (control) group received endodontic treatment with conventional side-vented needle irrigation and ultrasonic activation. The second group received treatment with the GWS. Following treatment, patients used a numeric rating scale to record their pain level at 6, 24, 72, and 168 hours.

RESULTS

In the standard treatment group, 72.2% of patients experienced at least 1 occurrence of postoperative pain, whereas in the GWS group, 83.3% of patients experienced at least 1 occurrence of postoperative pain. The highest pain intensity level for both treatments occurred at the 6-hour posttreatment time point. All pain decreased with time after the 6-hour posttreatment time point (P < 1.237e-7).

CONCLUSIONS

There was no significant difference in the incidence or intensity of postoperative pain after either treatment group. However, both groups reported a statistically significant decrease in pain with time.

Post-operative analgesia of 2% lignocaine with or without magnesium sulfate for inferior alveolar nerve block in symptomatic mandibular molars - a randomized double blind controlled clinical trial

Background

Single inferior alveolar nerve block is ineffective in achieving adequate pulpal anesthesia in 30-80% of patients due to anatomical variations, local tissue pH, central sensitization, and several factors. Various supplementary techniques and combination of adjuvants with lignocaine are used to overcome these failures. Magnesium sulfate (MgSO₄), one such adjuvant, acts at the N-methyl-D-aspartate glutamate receptor resulting in effective anesthesia. The aim of this prospective, randomized, double-blind, clinical controlled trial was to evaluate the onset, anesthetic efficacy, duration and post-operative analgesia of 2% lignocaine with and without the addition of MgSO₄ in patients with symptomatic irreversible pulpitis and apical periodontitis.

Methods

Fourty-two patients were randomly divided into three groups: 2% lignocaine (group 1) and 2% lignocaine with MgSO₄ (75 mg) and (150 mg) in groups 2 and 3, respectively. Pre-operative vitals and Heft Parker-Visual Analogue Scale (HP-VAS) pain scores were recorded. The onset of anesthesia, anesthetic efficacy, and duration of anesthesia were evaluated post administration of the local anesthetic solution. The post-operative analgesia was examined at intervals of 2, 6, 12, 24, and 48 h.

Results

Administration of 150 mg MgSO₄ hastens the onset of anesthesia (1.29 min) and produces better anesthetic efficacy (3.29 HP-VAS) compared to group 2 (2.07 min and 9.14 HP-VAS) and group 1 (3.29 min and 35.79 HP-VAS), respectively. The duration of anesthesia was significantly higher in group 3 (247.07 min) compared to that of groups 2 and 1 (190 min and 110.21 min) with P < 0.05.

Conclusion

Combining 75 mg or 150 mg of MgSO₄ with lignocaine is more effective than 2% lignocaine and 75 mg of MgSO₄ is adequate for endodontic procedures.

Post-treatment endodontic pain following occlusal reduction in mandibular posterior teeth with symptomatic irreversible pulpitis and sensitivity to percussion: a single-centre randomized controlled trial

AIM

This randomized, prospective, controlled trial assessed the effect of occlusal reduction on post-treatment endodontic pain and medication intake following root canal treatment of mandibular posterior teeth with symptomatic irreversible pulpitis with sensitivity to percussion treated in two visits.

METHODOLOGY

Three hundred and eight patients were randomly assigned into two equal groups according to whether occlusal reduction was done or not (n = 154). For all patients, root canal treatment was carried out in two visits without intracanal medication. Patients assessed their pain using the 0-10 numerical rating scale (NRS) 6, 12, 24 and 48 h after the first visit (post-instrumentation) and 6 and 12 h following root canal filling (post-obturation). Patients, also, recorded their medication intake (sham or analgesic), post-instrumentation and post-obturation; patients initially received a sham capsule, but, if pain persisted, an analgesic was prescribed. Data were analysed using Mann-Whitney U-test, Friedman's test, Wilcoxon's rank test and chi-square (χ² ) test. The relative risk (RR) and its 95% confidence interval (CI) were calculated for binary data.

RESULTS

Occlusal reduction was associated with lower pain intensity than no occlusal reduction at 12 and 24 h post-instrumentation (P < 0.05). Pain intensity significantly and gradually decreased with both groups at all post-instrumentation and post-obturation time-points compared to preoperative pain (P < 0.05). The RR of moderate-to-severe pain was 0.61 (95% CI: 0.41, 0.91) 12 h post-instrumentation, and the RR of pain incidence, regardless of its level, was 0.75 (95% CI: 0.61, 0.92) 24 h post-instrumentation. There was no significant difference in medication intake (sham or analgesic) between groups (P > 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Occlusal reduction was effective in reducing the intensity of postoperative pain 12 h and 24 h after root canal instrumentation in the first visit in patients with symptomatic irreversible pulpitis with sensitivity to percussion. Occlusal reduction lowered the risk of moderate-to-severe pain by about 40% 12 h post-instrumentation and the overall risk of pain by 25% 24 h post-instrumentation; yet, it did not affect medication intake.

Postendodontic pain in asymptomatic necrotic teeth prepared with different rotary instrumentation techniques

Objectives:

Materials and Methods:

Results:

Conclusion:

Effect of intra-canal cryotherapy on post-endodontic pain in single-visit RCT: A randomized controlled trial

AIM

To evaluate the effect of cold and room-temperature normal saline as a final irrigation on post-endodontic pain and to compare the post-endodontic pain level between the different protocols.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A randomized controlled trial was conducted on 105 patients who underwent RCT and were distributed blindly and randomly into three equal groups (n = 35): Group 1, Cryotherapy group; Group 2, Room- temperature normal saline group; and Group 3, Control group. The patients were asked to fill out the VAS questionnaire and register their post-endodontic pain at 6, 24, and 48 h. One-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and was used to determine statistical difference (α = 0.05) among the groups. Tuckey's test was used to calculate P-value (α = 0.05) between two each group.

RESULTS

The highest post-endodontic pain was in Group 3. There was no significance difference between Group 1 and Group 2.

CONCLUSION

Final flushing of the canal with saline either cold or at room temperature was effective for post-endodontic pain control. This can be promising as an essential step in endodontic treatment to reduce post-endodontic pain. The room-temperature saline as final irrigation showed comparable results to intra-canal cryotherapy.

Assessment of Postoperative Pain Using Different Root Canal Irrigants in Mandibular Molars with Symptomatic Irreversible Pulpitis: An Observational Study

Background:

The present study was conducted to assess postoperative pain using different root canal irrigants in mandibular molars with symptomatic irreversible pulpitis.

Materials and methods:

The present study was conducted on 84 patients (40 males and 44 females) having 126 mandibular molars with symptomatic irreversible pulpitis. In all molars, access cavity preparation was done and the root canal shaping procedures were performed according to the manufacturer’s instructions for each instrument system. Teeth were divided into 2 groups. In Group I, the 5.25% sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl) solution was used as an irrigating solution. In Group II, the 2% chlorhexidine gluconate (CHX) was used as an irrigating solution. A visual analog scale (VAS) was used to assess postobturation pain on the 1st, 3rd, and 7th days.

Results:

There were 40 males and 44 females in the present study. In Group I, the 5.25% NaOCl solution was used as an irrigating solution. In Group II, the 2% CHX was used as an irrigating solution. Each group had 63 teeth. VAS was 9 in Group I and 8 in Group II on Day 1; 5 and 3 in Groups I and II, respectively, on Day 3; and 3 and 1 on Day 7 in Groups I and II, respectively. The difference was significant ( P < .05).

Conclusions:

There were excellent results obtained with the 2% CHX solution as compared with the 5.25% NaOCl solution. Group II exhibited less VAS than Group I.

Influence of endodontic procedure on postoperative pain: Evidence from systematic reviews

Pain control, during and after root canal treatment is one of the important issues in endodontic practice. Occurrence of pain after intervention often presents considerable distress to both patient and dentist. In many studies influence of different endodontic treatment factors on incidence of postoperative pain has been investigated. However, different and inconsistent results between studies and growth in number of published papers each year made professional updating and clinical-decision making challenging. Systematic reviews synthesized and combined data from relevant studies to find the answer to a research question providing the highest level of scientific evidence. Thus, their use may facilitate decision making in clinical practice. The aim of this article was to present results from systematic reviews about the influence of endodontic treatment on postoperative pain.

Contemporary Cleaning and Shaping of the Root Canal System

Prevention or treatment of apical periodontitis is aimed at disinfecting the root canal system so that the periradicular tissues are not vulnerable to attack from microbiota within the tooth. This is achieved by a process of cleaning and shaping the root canal space. The fundamental principles underlying this process have not changed in decades. In contrast, the armamentarium available to the clinician continues to evolve rapidly. The use of specially designed nickel titanium (NiTi) files to create a glidepath allows the clinician to manage tight curved canals more predictably in situations which would otherwise have proved too difficult using conventional techniques. Other files, designed to shape the canal, have been developed using metallurgic principles which permit NiTi files to be more flexible and resistant to cyclic fatigue. These newer systems also require fewer instruments to prepare a canal and some, which have adopted a reciprocating (rotational) motion, may only require one file. Progress is also being made in enhancing efficacy of irrigant activity using negative apical pressure systems, sonic and ultrasonic agitation techniques. These contemporary techniques used to clean and shape the root canal system should result in improved confidence and predictability when managing endodontic disease.

Regenerative Endodontic Treatment versus Apical Plug in Immature Teeth: Three-Year Follow-Up

This report compares and evaluates the treatment outcomes of regenerative endodontic treatment and apical plug as two accepted treatment protocols in a pair of necrotic immature maxillary central incisors of a 12-year old female. The patient was referred complaining of a dull pain and swelling in her upper lip area. She had a history of trauma to the anterior maxilla two years earlier. Both teeth were clinically diagnosed with pulp necrosis and periapical radiographs revealed that separate periapical radiolucent lesions surrounded the immature apices of both teeth. The left and right incisors were treated with apical plug and regenerative endodontic treatment, respectively, using calcium-enriched mixture (CEM) cement. The patient was followed-up for three years. During this period, both teeth were clinically asymptomatic and showed complete radiographic healing of the periapical lesions. The right central incisor showed root development. No tooth discoloration was evident. Apexification by apical plug placement and pulp regeneration are both reliable treatments for immature non-vital teeth. In order to choose the right treatment the advantages of either technique should be weighed against its drawbacks. CEM cement can be successfully applied for both purposes. This biomaterial causes less discoloration of the tooth.

Apical extrusion of debris in four different endodontic instrumentation systems: A meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

All endodontic instrumentation systems tested so far, promote apical extrusion of debris, which is one of the main causes of postoperative pain, flare ups, and delayed healing.

OBJECTIVES

Of this meta-analysis was to collect and analyze in vitro studies quantifying apically extruded debris while using Hand ProTaper (manual), ProTaper Universal (rotary), Wave One (reciprocating), and self-adjusting file (SAF; vibratory) endodontic instrumentation systems and to determine methods which produced lesser extrusion of debris apically.

METHODOLOGY

An extensive electronic database search was done in PubMed, Scopus, Cochrane, LILACS, and Google Scholar from inception until February 2016 using the key terms "Apical Debris Extrusion, extruded material, and manual/rotary/reciprocating/SAF systems." A systematic search strategy was followed to extract 12 potential articles from a total of 1352 articles. The overall effect size was calculated from the raw mean difference of weight of apically extruded debris.

RESULTS

Statistically significant difference was seen in the following comparisons: SAF < Wave One, SAF < Rotary ProTaper.

CONCLUSIONS

Apical extrusion of debris was invariably present in all the instrumentation systems analyzed. SAF system seemed to be periapical tissue friendly as it caused reduced apical extrusion compared to Rotary ProTaper and Wave One.

Effect of three different rotary instrumentation systems on postinstrumentation pain: A randomized clinical trial

Background:

Endodontic instrumentation is liable to cause some postinstrumentation pain (PIP). Rotary endodontic instruments differ in their design, metallurgy, surface treatment, etc.

Aim:

This randomized clinical trial aimed to assess the incidence of PIP after root canal instrumentation with three different rotary endodontic systems which differ in their design, namely, ProTaper, Mtwo, and K3.

Materials and Methods:

A total of 150 patients between the ages of 25 and 50 were chosen for the study. Teeth with asymptomatic irreversible pulpitis due to carious exposure were selected. The patients received local anesthesia by inferior alveolar nerve block. After preparing the access cavity, root canal instrumentation was done with one of the three instruments (n = 50) and closed dressing was given. PIP was assessed every 12 h for 5 days, and tenderness to percussion was analyzed at the end of 1, 3, and 7 days.

Statistical Analysis:

Mann–Whitney U-test to determine significant differences at P < 0.01.

Results:

The PIP and tenderness were less in Mtwo group when compared to ProTaper and K3 groups up to 84 h and 72 h respectively and statistically significant (P < 0.05). There was no statistically significant difference between ProTaper and K3 both in PIP and tenderness.

Conclusion:

Rotary endodontic instrumentation causes some degree of PIP and tenderness to percussion. Among the instruments used, Mtwo causes less PIP and tenderness when compared to ProTaper and K3, and there was no difference between ProTaper and K3.

Clinical Relevance:

PIP is highly subjective and may vary among different subjects. The apical (3 mm) taper of ProTaper was 0.08 followed by a smaller taper, whereas, the other two files were of a constant 0.06 taper, which means there could have been a greater apical extrusion and therefore more PIP. Despite, the mean of the age was similar, there could have been a difference in the size of the canal and therefore a difference in apical extrusion and PIP.

Effect of maintaining apical patency on endodontic pain in posterior teeth with pulp necrosis and apical periodontitis: a randomized controlled trial

AIM

To evaluate the association between apical patency and post-operative pain in posterior teeth with pulp necrosis and apical periodontitis.

METHODOLOGY

Sixty-eight patients requiring primary root canal treatment in mandibular first molars with necrotic pulps and apical periodontitis were included. The patients were randomly allocated to one of two groups: patency (n = 34) and nonpatency (n = 34). After administering local anaesthesia, root canal preparation was completed using ProTaper rotary instruments. A size 10 K-file was used as a patency file and carried 1 mm beyond the working length (WL) between each instrument change in the patency group, while it was carried up to WL in the nonpatency group. Patients were asked to record their pain experience on a pain chart daily for 7 days. Three patients (two in the patency group, one in the nonpatency group) did not return with completed pain charts on the subsequent visit, resulting in a total of 65 patients for the final analysis (patency, n = 32; nonpatency, n = 33). Data was analysed using Chi Square test, t-test, Mann-Whitney test and Wilcoxon Signed Ranks test.

RESULTS

Overall, 43% of the patients experienced post-operative pain. The patency group had less incidence of pain (34%) as compared to the nonpatency group (52%), but the difference was not significant (P = 0.163).

CONCLUSION

Maintenance of apical patency during chemomechanical preparation had no significant influence on post-operative pain in posterior teeth with necrotic pulps and apical periodontitis.

Effect of single dose pretreatment analgesia with three different analgesics on postoperative endodontic pain: A randomized clinical trial

Introduction:

One of the aims of root canal treatment is to prevent or eliminate pain. Postoperative endodontic pain control continues to be a significant challenge.

Aim:

To compare and evaluate the effect of single oral dose of 100 mg of tapentadol, 400 mg of etodolac, or 10 mg of ketorolac as a pretreatment analgesic for the prevention and control of postoperative endodontic pain in patients with symptomatic irreversible pulpitis. The incidence of side effects was recorded as secondary outcome.

Materials and Methods:

Sixty emergency patients with moderate to severe pain, diagnosed with symptomatic irreversible pulpitis were randomly allocated (1:1:1) to any of the three groups; tapentadol, etodolac, or ketorolac. Medications were administered 30 min before beginning of the endodontic treatment. Patients recorded pain intensity on 10 cm visual analog scale (VAS) after treatment, for upto 24 h.

Results:

At 24 h, mean ±standard deviation (SD) of VAS scores (in cm) for tapentadol, etodolac, and ketorolac were 0.89 ± 0.83, 2.68 ± 2.29, and 0.42 ± 0.69, respectively. Kruskal-Wallis (K-W) test showed significant difference among the three groups (P = 0.001). Mann-Whitney test showed significantly lower VAS scores in tapentadol and ketorolac than etodolac group (P = 0.013 and 0.001, respectively).

Conclusions:

Single oral dose of 10 mg of ketorolac and 100mg of tapentadol as a pretreatment analgesic significantly reduced postoperative endodontic pain in patients with symptomatic irreversible pulpitis when compared to 400 mg of etodolac.

Comparative evaluation of postoperative pain after using endodontic needle and EndoActivator during root canal irrigation: A randomised controlled trial

The purpose of this study was to evaluate and compare the postoperative level of pain after activation of irrigants using EndoActivator with conventional needle irrigation during root canal therapy. In this prospective randomised clinical trial, 72 symptomatic irreversible pulpitis patients were selected. Based on block randomisation after routine root canal preparation, patients were assigned to two groups. In group EN, procedures were performed with endodontic irrigating needle (n = 36) while group EA received activation using EndoActivator (n = 36) in the final irrigation protocol. All the participants were called through phone at 8, 24 and 48 h to analyse pain score using visual analogue scale. Those patients who developed pain were prescribed ibuprofen 200 mg. Pain score and frequency of tablet intake were recorded and statistically analysed. Results showed that group EA resulted in significantly less postoperative pain and analgesics intake than group EN. In conclusion, within the limitations of this study, the activation of irrigants using EndoActivator can be considered an effective method for reducing postoperative pain.

Quantitative evaluation of apical extrusion of intracanal bacteria using K3, Mtwo, RaCe and protaper rotary systems: An in vitro study

Aim:

This aim of this study was to evaluate the number of bacteria extruded apically during root canal preparation using Four Rotary instrumentation techniques.

Materials and Methods:

A total of 50 extracted mandibular premolars were selected, access cavities prepared and inserted in to rubber stoppers of 10 mL glass vial. Root canals were contaminated with a suspension of Enterococcus faecalis (E. faecalis) American Type Culture Collection (ATCC) 29212 and incubated for 24 h at 37°C. Debris extruded from the apical foramen during instrumentation was collected into vials. The numbers of Colony-forming units were determined for each sample.

Statistical Analysis:

The data obtained were analyzed using the one-way ANOVA followed by post-hoc tukey's test with a P = 0.05 as the level for statistical significance.

Results:

Results suggested a statistically significant difference in the number of colony forming units between four experimental rotary Nickel-Titanium instrumentation groups (P < 0.001).

Conclusion:

Although, extrusion of bacteria was found in all the experimental groups. There was less bacterial extrusion in K3 Group while more bacterial extrusion was seen in Mtwo Group.