A systematic review of nonsurgical single-visit versus multiple-visit endodontic treatment

Root canal re-treatment with gutta percha - which techniques influence success?

OBJECTIVE

A systematic review and meta-analysis of the literature was carried out assessing the success rate of root canal retreatment using gutta percha.

DATA SOURCES

Four of the largest databases were used to identify existing literature with no date or language restrictions. PubMed, Cochrane, ScienceDirect, Scopus and other additional sources were searched. Grey literature was also reviewed.

STUDY SELECTION

Two authors, with Master's degrees in endodontics and with extensive university teaching experience, were selected to screen the databases to identify suitable studies. In case the authors were not able to agree during the study selection process, a third investigator was consulted. Specific inclusion and exclusion criteria were outlined and adhered to in the study selection. Two randomised controlled trials, seven single arm prospective studies and one single arm ambispective study published before the 10th of December 2022 were included. These studies evaluated the success of root canal re-treatment, obturated with gutta percha with at least a 1-year follow-up. Nine of the studies were published between 1998 and 2022. Seven studies were conducted in Europe, one in North America and one in Asia.

DATA EXTRACTION AND SYNTHESIS

Standard Cochrane methods to assess interval validity were used. Risk of bias in individual studies was assessed using The Newcastle-Ottawa quality assessment scale (NOS) for single-arm studies, and the Cochrane risk of bias tool (RoB2) was used for randomised controlled trials. Outcome measures were standardised as either success or failure of root canal retreatment. Success was classified into 2 different criteria: Strict criteria = absence of clinical signs and symptoms and radiographically normal periodontal ligament space; and Loose criteria = absence of clinical signs and symptoms and absence or reduction of apical radiolucency in the control radiograph. Statistical analysis was undertaken using R software and the Freeman-Turkey transformation was performed. Results were visualised using forest plots. Heterogeneity between studies was measured using the Cochrane Q test and I2 values.

RESULTS

Whilst following strict criteria, the success rate of non-surgical root canal retreatment obturated with gutta percha was 71% for 1-3 years follow-up (95% CI, 0.66-0.77) and 77% for 4-5 years follow-up (95% CI, 0.67-0.86). Heterogeneity was moderate (I2 = 61.4) and low (I2 = 0.0), respectively. Factors reducing the success rate of root canal re-retreatment under the strict criteria were older patients, mandibular teeth, molar teeth, the presence of a peri-apical radiolucency, teeth with a previous radiolucency, large peri-apical radiolucency's, higher initial periapical index scores and multiple visit-retreatments. Following the loose criteria, the success rate of non-surgical root canal re-treatment obturated with gutta percha was 87% for 1-3 years follow-up (95% CI, 0.79-0.93) with significant heterogeneity across the studies (I2 = 88.5%). Factors influencing the success rate under the loose criteria were large periapical lesions >5 mm and higher initial periapical index (PAI) scores.

CONCLUSIONS

Non-surgical root canal retreatment results in favourable outcomes. However, there are several factors which can result in a lower success rate: the presence and size of a periapical radiolucency, a higher initial PAI score, multiple-visit retreatments, and the size and position of the tooth.

Incidence of Postoperative Flare-Up After Single-Visit and Multi-visit Endodontic Therapy

This article presents results obtained from a survey, including patients who underwent endodontic treatment by the single-visit or multi-visit method, after confirmation of the diagnosis of chronic apical periodontitis.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of the survey was to obtain data from the studied patients on the frequency and the type of postoperative pain after treatment of chronic apical periodontitis, as well as whether there is a relation between gender, age, and postoperative pain.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A visual analog scale was used to study the intensity of postoperative pain in the treatment of teeth diagnosed with CPP, which are treated by one of two methods - single-visit or multi-visit method. The total number of surveyed patients is 71. The patients were examined and treated at the Dental Clinic "Imperial" in Varna, Bulgaria, in 2020. Thirty-one of them were treated by the single-visit method, and the remaining 40 by the multi-visit method with placement of a temporary dressing or sterile swab.

RESULTS

A relatively large proportion (70%) of patients reported mild pain immediately after the root canal filling. A relatively large proportion (90.3%) of patients did not report pain one week after the root canal filling. The more frequent symptoms were observed in cases treated by the multi-visit method, after the application of a temporary dressing. Patients who reported taking analgesics were treated in the multi-visit method. More frequent pain symptoms with both methods of treatment were observed in men aged 36-60 years.

CONCLUSION

Although exacerbation has been shown to have no significant effect on the outcome of endodontic treatment, it is highly undesirable. In the short term, the postoperative pain in patients treated by the multi-visit method through the use of intracanal medication is more pronounced. Patients receiving the single-visit treatment reported less postoperative pain.

Periradicular repair after single- and two-visit root canal treatments using ultrasonic irrigant activation and calcium hydroxide dressing of teeth with apical periodontitis: study protocol for randomized controlled trials

BACKGROUND

In certain clinical situations, root canal treatment in teeth with apical periodontitis is performed in multiple visits, with the use of intracanal dressing between visits, aiming to reduce microorganisms and their by-products of the root canal system prior to filling. However, in recent years, discussions have been growing about the real need for the use of intracanal dressing in these cases. The use of ultrasonic activation of the auxiliary chemical substance has increased the potential for decontamination promoted during the chemomechanical preparation of the root canal. Thus, this study is designed to explore whether the use of intracanal dressing between visits during endodontic treatment favors periradicular repair in teeth with apical periodontitis.

METHODS

This is a randomized, prospective, double-blinded, controlled clinical trial designed to evaluate 3 distinct clinical approaches used during endodontic therapy: group 1-root canal treatment in a single visit (RCT-SV); group 2-root canal treatment in two visits with intracanal dressing (RCT-TVWD); and group 3-root canal treatment in two visits without intracanal dressing (RCT-TVWOD). A total of 150 adult patients aged 18 to 60, with at least one tooth diagnosed with asymptomatic apical periodontitis and periradicular lesion (confirmed with a cone beam computed tomography (CBCT)), will be randomized and will undergo one of the types of clinical approaches during endodontic therapy. Patients' postoperative pain levels will also be recorded in periods of 24, 48, and 72 h and 7 days. Subsequently, clinical findings and long-term follow-up evaluations, with periradicular repair, will be performed at 6 and 12 months by intraoral periapical radiograph (IOPAR) and CBCT at the 24-month follow-up.

DISCUSSION

This study will evaluate the periradicular repair of mandibular molar teeth with apical periodontitis, providing information about the efficacy, benefits, and safety of performing the endodontic treatment in a single and two visits, with and without the use of calcium hydroxide dressing. All endodontic therapy procedures will be performed under a dental operating microscope and using ultrasonic activation of auxiliary chemical substances. These results may contribute to changes in the clinical approaches adopted during endodontic therapy of teeth with apical periodontitis and reveal the potential of complementary approaches that aim to enhance the decontamination of the root canal system during the preparation stage.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT05256667. Registered on 24 February 2022.

Plasma Rich in Growth Factors in the Treatment of Endodontic Periapical Lesions in Adult Patients: 3-Dimensional Analysis Using Cone-Beam Computed Tomography on the Outcomes of Non-Surgical Endodontic Treatment Using A-PRF+ and Calcium Hydroxide: A Retrospective Cohort Study

The study presents results of periapical lesion healing after one-visit root canal treatment (RCT) with Advanced Platelet Rich Fibrin plus (A-PRF+) application compared to a two-visit RCT with an inter-appointment calcium hydroxide filling. The comparison was made based on CBCT-Periapical Index (PAI) lesion volume changes and the occurrence of post endodontic pain. The results of 3D radiographic healing assessments based on volume reduction criteria were different from the CBCT-PAI. Based on volume changes, the healing assessment criteria-9 cases from the Study Group and six cases in the Control Group were defined as healed. Based on the CBCT-PAI healing assessment criteria, 8 cases from the Study Group and 9 cases from the Control Group were categorized as healed. The volumes of apical radiolucency were, on average, reduced by 85.93% in the Study Group and by 72.31% in the Control Group. Post-endodontic pain occurred more frequently in the Control than in the Study Group. The highest score of pain in the Study Group was five (moderate pain, n = 1), while in the Control Group, the highest score was eight (severe pain, n = 2). In the 6-month follow-up, CBCT scans showed a better healing tendency for patients in the Study Group.

Post-Operative Endodontic Pain Management: An Overview of Systematic Reviews on Post-Operatively Administered Oral Medications and Integrated Evidence-Based Clinical Recommendations

Endodontic treatment comprises the overall management of pre-, intra- and post-operative symptoms, including post-operative endodontic pain, considered as a complication susceptible of chronicization. Post-operative pain is very common and highly unpreventable and has a multi-factorial etiology and a potential pathogenic link to the acute inflammation of the periapical area, secondary to localized chemical, mechanical, host and/or microbial damage occurring during endodontic treatment. Considering the multitude of heterogeneous technical and pharmacological approaches proposed to control post-operative endodontic pain, the present study primarily comprised an overview of systematic reviews of systematic reviews of randomized clinical trials, summarizing findings on post-operatively administered oral medications for post-operative endodontic pain control, in order to note the most effective type and dosage of such drugs. Secondarily, a narrative review of the current evidence on technical solutions to be observed during endodontic treatment procedures, to control post-operative pain, was conducted to provide integrated evidence-based clinical recommendations for optimal post-operative endodontic pain management.

Comparative evaluation of postoperative pain and periapical healing after root canal treatment using three different base endodontic sealers - A randomized control clinical trial

BACKGROUND

The aim of the present study was to evaluate and compare the postoperative pain and periapical healing after root canal treatment using three different base endodontic sealers.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Primary root canal treatment was initiated in 63 patients diagnosed with necrotic pulp and apical periodontitis, cleaning and shaping was completed in two visit and different base endodontic sealers were used for obturation were selected based on the random allocation of the participants to the following groups; Tubli-Seal, AH Plus and BioRoot RCS. Postoperative pain was recorded by using 100 mm visual analog scale at 24 h, 48 h, 72 h and 7 d after obturation. Digital periapical radiographic evaluation was done to assess rate of periapical healing at baseline, 1, 3 and 6 months. Statistical analysis was done using Kruskal Wallis test and one-way ANOVA.

RESULTS

The mean difference in the size of periapical lesions for Tubli-Seal (6.27, 13.41), AH Plus (3.86, 9.80) and BioRoot RCS (4.05, 10.22) at 3 months and 6 months respectively. The mean pain scores at 24 h for Tubli-Seal (17.94 ± 11.35), AH Plus (11.57 ± 11.18), BioRoot RCS (4.73 ± 7.72). At 48 h, Tubli-Seal (5.26 ± 9.04), AH Plus (1.57 ± 3.74) and BioRoot RCS (1.57 ± 3.74) respectively. The mean pain score at 72 h for Tubli-Seal was 2.63 ± 7.33 whereas none of the patients had reported pain in AH Plus and BioRoot RCS group. None of the patients had pain after 7 d of treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

BioRoot RCS showed less postoperative pain compared to AH Plus and Tubli-Seal and showed better periapical healing compared to AH Plus and Tubli-Seal at 3 and 6 months intervals respectively. Key words:BioRoot RCS, root canal obturation, root canal sealers, periapical periodontitis, Periapical healing, postoperative pain.

The Effect of Speed and Rotation for Protaper File Systems on Postobturation Pain in a Single Visit and Multiple (Two) Visits in Root Canal Therapy: An In Vivo Study

INTRODUCTION

The basic idea of a root canal treatment is to alleviate the pain and heal the infection within the infected tooth, which can be resolved in a single visit or multiple visits in root canal therapy. Therefore, in this article, an in vivo comparison of single visits and multiple visits using different rotation and speed for two Protaper universal design file systems is done on the basis of time taken and incidence of pain.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

One hundred single-rooted premolars with irreversible symptomatic pulpitis were assigned to two groups of 50 patients each using the odd-even method, GA to be treated endodontically in a single visit and GB to be treated endodontically in multiple visits. Each group was further divided into two subgroups of 25 patients each on the basis of two different variations of speed and rotation for two Protaper file systems of the same design, GA1 (Hand Protapers) and GA2 (Rotary Protapers), GB1 (Hand Protapers) and GB2 (Rotary Protapers), respectively. After proper biomechanical shaping and cleaning, obturation was done with Gutta-percha cones and Ah plus sealer using Fast Pack obturation pen for warm vertical compaction. The pain was measured by a 100 mm modified visual analogue scale, and time was measured using a stopwatch.

RESULTS

At 6-h intervals, post-obturation pain was more in single-visit root canal therapy than multiple-visit root canal therapy (P < 0.01). Single-visit rotary Protaper (GA2) had less incidence of post-obturation pain as compared with single-visit hand protapers (GA1) (P < 0.05). There was no significant difference in post-obturation pain in the multiple-visit hand protaper subgroup (GB1) and multiple-visit rotary protaper subgroup (GB2) (P > 0.05). Preoperative pain significantly influences the post-obturation pain. The statistical analysis was done using SPSS (Statistical Package for Social Sciences) version 17.0 statistical Analysis Software.

CONCLUSIONS

The presence of preoperative pain can significantly influence the presence of postoperative pain. Most of the pain in both single-visit and multiple-visits root canal therapy occurred in the first 48 h after obturation, which decreases thereafter. Single-visit rotary protaper (GA2) had less incidence of post-obturation pain as compared with single-visit hand protapers (GA1). There was no significant difference in post-obturation pain in the multiple-visit hand protaper subgroup (GB1) and multiple-visit rotary protaper subgroup (GB2). Presence of sealer puff influences the duration of pain.

Tooth and temporary filling material fractures caused by Cavit, Cavit W and Coltosol F: an in vitro study

Background

Tooth fractures can occur after temporary inter-appointment endodontic filling, resulting in not preserving and thus extraction of the affected tooth. The purpose of this investigation was therefore to evaluate the tooth substance fracture potential given by the expansion of endodontic temporary filling materials.

Methods

Tooth and access cavities were prepared in 80 mandibular molars. Four groups of 20 teeth each (Cavit, Cavit W and Coltosol F and control) were included. To simulate a clinical situation, the teeth were endodontically pre-treated and a calcium hydroxide dressing was placed. The cavities were filled with the corresponding temporary filling material, with exception of the control group, and kept submerged in distilled water for 15 days. The teeth were examined every 24 h by two calibrated observers under a stereomicroscope (7.5×), fractures of the temporary filling material and tooth structure were photo-documented, and the results statistically analyzed. Kaplan–Meier survival analysis were calculated to illustrate (survival = no fracture) probabilities to evaluate the time when the temporary filling material, tooth structure or both together occurred. Log-rank test was performed in order to assess significant differences between the materials and the subgroups used.

Results

Fractures were observed only in the Coltosol F group (p < 0.01), at the end of the observation period, a total of 13 teeth (65%) showed temporary filling material and eight teeth (40%) showed tooth structure fractures. No fractures in the pulp chamber area were observed at the end of the observation period in any group.

Conclusions

Within the limitations of the current in vitro study, the results obtained suggest that tooth structure fractures caused by a temporary filling material can occur during endodontic treatment, thus compromising the success of the treatment.

Evaluation of postoperative pain/discomfort after intracanal use of Nd:YAG and diode lasers in patients with symptomatic irreversible pulpitis and asymptomatic necrotic pulps: a randomized control trial

OBJECTIVES

This study aimed to investigate the ability of the diode and Nd:YAG lasers to decrease postoperative pain/discomfort after intracanal application in vital and devital endodontic cases.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

One hundred two patients with symptomatic irreversible pulpitis and asymptomatic necrotic pulps were selected and randomly divided into three groups. After chemomechanical preparation, Nd:YAG and diode laser was applied to first and second groups for final treatment of the root canals. In the control group, no further disinfection protocol was performed upon traditional procedures. Then all the teeth were obturated in the same appointment. Pre- and postoperative pain were recorded using the VAS at 0, 12th, 24th, 48th, and 72nd hours following the treatment Kruskal-Wallis and Dunn test.

RESULTS

VAS scores were significantly the most at 12-h period compared with other time periods after treatment for all groups. There was no significant difference among Nd:YAG laser, diode laser, and control groups in non-vital cases (p > 0.05). In vital cases, Nd:YAG laser group represented significantly fewer scores compared with diode laser and control groups at 48-h period (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

The processes involving the use of Nd:YAG and diode lasers after chemomechanical preparation was found to be equivalent in terms of postoperative pain intensity after completion of treatment in one session both in vital or non-vital cases except in vital cases in Nd:YAG group at 48 h.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

Adjunct clinical use of Nd:YAG or diode lasers to traditional chemomechanical preparation did not cause any improvement or deterioration on postoperative discomfort and pain in patients with symptomatic irreversible pulpitis and asymptomatic necrotic pulps.

Post-treatment Flare-up Incidence after Using Nano Zinc Oxide Eugenol Sealer in Mandibular First Molars with Irreversible Pulpitis

Statement of the Problem:

Some patients may report moderate-to-severe pain and/or swelling following root canal treatment, which is undesirable for both the patient and dentist and may require an unscheduled emergency visit by patients to relieve their symptoms.

Purpose:

The aim of this study was to evaluate the post-treatment flare-up incidence following application of nano zinc oxide-eugenol (NZOE) sealer in mandibular first molars with irreversible pulpitis.

Materials and Method:

This single-blinded study was performed on 60 patients having mandibular first molars with irreversible pulpitis. After signing the written consent form, the patients were randomly divided into two groups considering their age range (20-34 and 35-50 years). Individuals without systemic diseases and with a first mandibular molar diagnosed with irreversible pulpitis due to caries, no sinus track and abscess, normal periapical radiographic appearance, no spontaneous pre-treatment pain, not taken any medication for at least 8 hours before the treatment visit were included in this study. Patients of both sexes with age range of 20 to 50 years were selected. In order to obturate the root canal space, AH26 sealer was used in the one group and the synthesized NZOE was applied in another group. The patients were then given questionnaires to report the severity of pain and presence of swelling during 6, 18, 24, and 48 hours of follow-up. The data was analyzed using SPSS v.19 software applying repeated measures ANOVA. The significance level was set at 0.05.

Results:

The severity of pain was significantly lower in NZOE group at 24 hours post-treatment (p= 0.003). Patients reported no symptoms of swelling in any group.

Conclusion:

NZOE sealer manifested satisfactory results and could be regarded as a promising substitute to routine sealers since patients may experience less pain during the first hours after receiving root canal therapy.

Clinical Efficacy of Single-visit Pulpectomy over Multiple-visit Pulpectomy in Primary Teeth: A Systematic Review

Objective

The purpose of this systematic review was to compare the efficacy of single-visit pulpectomy (SVP) vs multiple-visit pulpectomy (MVP) in infected primary teeth.

Materials and methods

An extensive literature search in the English language was conducted in PICO format using MeSH terms using databases (PubMed, EBSCO, Ovid, and Cochrane) and pre-specified inclusion and exclusion criteria were applied to identify relevant studies comparing pulpectomy in single and multiple visits.

Results

Only 4 studies (3—in vivo clinical study; 1—in vivo microbial study) sustained the final analysis and were included for critical appraisal. Results of the systematic search revealed that there are only a few studies comparing the efficacy of single-visit pulpectomy vs multiple-visit pulpectomy in infected primary teeth.

Conclusion

On the basis of the available studies, evidence favors the SVP protocol over the MVP protocol. Whenever possible the single-visit protocol can be preferred over the multiple-visit protocol. The quality of evidence available is low.

How to cite this article

Tirupathi SP, Krishna N, Rajasekhar S, et al. Clinical Efficacy of Single-visit Pulpectomy over Multiple-visit Pulpectomy in Primary Teeth: A Systematic Review. Int J Clin Pediatr Dent 2019;12(5):453–459.

A retrospective assessment of different endodontic treatment protocols

Background

The aim of this study was to assess the clinical impact of non-surgical root canal treatments (NSRCT) performed with different treatment protocols on the probability of tooth survival without untoward events and to identify predictors influencing the outcome.

Methods

During the period from July 1999 to October 2016, 5,858 patients were identified in which 9,967 NSRCTs were performed. The treatments were followed up and divided into three groups. In Group 1 root canal treatment was performed with hand instruments, in Group 2 with multiple file rotary instruments and passive ultrasonic irrigation (PUI), and Group 3 was treated with Reciproc instruments and PUI. Untoward events were defined as orthograde retreatment, apicoectomy or extraction of the tooth after initial treatment. Weibull regression was used to analyse the data.

Results

A total of 9,938 cases could be included into the analyses. The results showed 5-years predicted survival rates without untoward events of 73.9% (95% CI [71.7%–76.1%]), 75.1% (95% CI [71.7%–78.0%]) and 78.4% (95% CI [75.1%–81.4%]) for study group 1 (N = 5,580), 2 (N = 1,700) and 3 (N = 2,658), respectively. The differences between Group 1 and 3 were statistically significant (p < 0.006). Higher age of the patient (per year increase) and number of earlier NSRCTs (per unit increase) reduce the survival without untoward events statistically significant (both p < 0.02), while treatment of premolars had a statistically significant lower hazard ratio [0.89 (95% CI [0.79–0.99]; p = 0.030)] compared to treatment of molars and anterior teeth. A higher number of supportive periodontal treatments (per unit increase) improved tooth survival without untoward events highly significant (p < 0.0001).

Discussion

More recent endodontic treatment protocols involving reciprocating instruments and PUI appear to be associated with higher tooth survival rates without untoward events compared to hand instruments.

Efficacy and potential use of novel sustained release fillers as intracanal medicaments against Enterococcus faecalis biofilm in vitro

Background

Enterococcus faecalis is a bacterium frequently isolated after failed root canal therapy. This study analyzed the antibacterial and antibiofilm effects in vitro of sustained-release fillers (SRF) containing cetylpyridinium chloride (CPC) against vancomycin resistant E. faecalis.

Methods

First, the solidification capability was tested by introducing liquid SRF into phosphate buffered saline, followed by 30 s of vortexing. The antimicrobial effects of SRF-CPC against static monospecies biofilms were analyzed with a metabolic assay. Inhibition of biofilm formation was tested by exposing daily refreshed E. faecalis suspensions to SRF-CPC for 9 weeks. To evaluate the effects of SRF-CPC against preformed biofilms, biofilms were grown for 1, 3 and 7 days, and then treated with SRF-CPC for 24 h. Biofilm kill time was tested by applying SRF-CPC to a 3-day-old biofilm and measuring its viability at different time points. All experiments were compared to Placebo SRFs and to untreated control biofilms. Data were analyzed with two-way ANOVA followed by Tukey’s test. Results were considered significant at P < 0.05.

Results

The liquid SRF solidified within seconds and no structural changes were observed after 30 s of vortexing at maximum speed. SRF-CPC inhibited E. faecalis biofilm formation for 7 weeks and significantly reduced its viability in weeks 8 and 9. Mature biofilms grown for 1, 3 and 7 days were destructed by SRF-CPC in less than 24 h. Fifty percent of a 3-day-old biofilm was destructed in 2 h and complete destruction occurred in less than 12 h. (P < 0.05 in all cases, compared to SRII-Placebo).

Conclusions

SRF-CPC’s physical properties and long-lasting anti-biofilm effects make it a promising coadjuvant medication for endodontic therapy.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (10.1186/s12903-019-0879-1) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Postoperative pain of patients with necrotic teeth with apical periodontitis following single visit endodontic treatment versus multiple visit endodontic treatment using triple antibiotic paste: a randomized clinical trial

Background: A randomized clinical trial was conducted to compare the postoperative pain following endodontic treatment of necrotic teeth with apical periodontitis. Treatments were performed in multiple visits with application of triple antibiotic paste interappointment dressing or single visit without interappointment dressing. Methods: In total 44 participants were assigned randomly into two groups. Group A: multiple visit endodontic treatment with triple antibiotic paste interappointment dressing; group B: single visit endodontic treatment without interappointment dressing. Postoperative pain of participants was assessed after 24, 48, 72 hours and one week using numerical rating scale. Results: No statistically significant difference was found in postoperative pain after 24, 48, 72 hours and one week between the two groups. Conclusion: Triple antibiotic paste as an interappointment dressing in multiple visits endodontic treatment was not proved to reduce the postoperative pain compared to a single visit in patients with necrotic teeth with apical periodontitis who did not have an interappointment dressing. Trial registration: clinicaltrials.gov, NCT02947763. Date: 28th October 2016.

Sustained-Release Fillers for Dentin Disinfection: An Ex Vivo Study

Enterococcus faecalis is the most commonly recovered species from failed root canal treatments. In this study, we tested the capability of a novel intracanal sustained-release filler (SRF) containing cetylpyridinium chloride (CPC) to disinfect dentinal tubules of segmented human tooth specimens. Human dental root specimens were infected with E. faecalis V583 for 3 weeks in a static environment. The tested intracanal medicaments were SRF-CPC and calcium hydroxide (CH). Each medicament was introduced into the canal of the dental specimen and incubated for 7 days. The bacteriological samples were taken by shaving the dentine surrounding the root canal with dental burs ranging in size from ISO 014-020. The obtained dentine powder was collected in test tubes containing phosphate-buffered saline, sonicated, and plated on agar plates. Colony-forming units were counted after 48 h of incubation. Random specimens were also examined under confocal laser scanning microscopy and scanning electron microscopy. A statistical difference was found in the bacterial counts obtained from all layers of infected dentin between the control and the SRF-CPC groups. CH reduced bacterial viability significantly only in the first layer of the infected dentin, up to 150 μm into the dentinal tubules. CLSM images showed that SRF-CPC killed most bacteria throughout the infected dentin up to 700 μm of penetration. SEM images demonstrated the adhesion ability of SRF-CPC to the dentinal wall. In conclusion, SRF-CPC is a potential intracanal medicament for disinfecting dentinal tubules.

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.

Effects of Diode Laser, Gaseous Ozone, and Medical Dressings on Enterococcus faecalis Biofilms in the Root Canal Ex Vivo

The objective was to compare the antibacterial effects of adjunctive disinfection using diode laser and gaseous ozone compared to the medical dressings calcium hydroxide (Ca(OH)₂) and chlorhexidine gel (CHX-Gel) on Enterococcus faecalis biofilms in human root canals ex vivo. Root canals of 180 human extracted teeth were infected by E. faecalis and divided into 3 main groups (G): G1, control; G2, instrumentation and irrigation using 0.9% NaCl; G3, instrumentation and irrigation using 1% NaOCl. In each main group, the following treatments were applied: gaseous ozone, diode laser, and medical dressings of Ca(OH)₂ or CHX-Gel for 7 days (n = 15). Reduction of colony forming units (CFUs) inside the root canal of planktons and frequencies of adherent bacteria after treatment were calculated. Bacterial reduction was significantly affected by the irrigation protocol (p < 0.0005) and the disinfection method (p < 0.0005), and a significant interaction between both factors could be observed (p < 0.0005; ANOVA). In G3 (instrumentation using 1% NaOCl), no significant effect of disinfection methods could be demonstrated on planktonic bacteria (p = 0.062; ANOVA) and frequencies of adherent bacteria (p > 0.05; chi-square test). Instrumentation and irrigation using NaOCl combined with ozone or laser application resulted in comparable bacterial reduction on E. faecalis to the application of medical dressings.

Postoperative Pain and Flare-Ups: Comparison of Incidence Between Single and Multiple Visit Pulpectomy in Primary Molars

INTRODUCTION

Endodontic treatment performed in either single- or multiple visit can be followed by numerous short- and long term complications. One of the short term complications include postoperative pain and flare-ups. The ability to predict its prevalence and forewarn the patient may go some way towards enabling coping strategies and help dentist in pain management treatment decisions.

AIM

To compare the incidence and intensity of postoperative pain and flare-ups between single- and multiple visit pulpectomy in primary molars. Also, to correlate the preoperative status of the pulp to postoperative pain and flare-ups.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Eighty primary molars indicated for pulpectomy were included in the study and divided into two groups. Tooth treated and preoperative status of the pulp vitality was recorded. All the conventional steps in pulpectomy were followed. Teeth in Group 1 (single visit pulpectomy) were obturated on the same visit. Teeth in Group 2 (multiple visit pulpectomy) were obturated in the subsequent appointment. The recording of postoperative pain, flare-ups, use of medication were done after 24 hours, seven days and one month.

RESULTS

Four cases in both the groups reported postoperative pain (10%) at 24 hour recall, p=0.74. One flare-up (2.5%) was recorded in each group p=0.67. None of the patients reported pain at seventh day and one month recall. Postoperative pain was recorded in five non-vital teeth (13.5%) and three vital teeth (6.9%). However, it was statistically not significant p=0.53.

CONCLUSION

From the perspective of our study there was a low incidence of postoperative pain. The majority of patients in both groups reported no pain or only minimal pain within 24 hours of treatment. There were no differences between single- and multi visit treatment protocols with respect to the incidence of postoperative pain. No significant correlation could be found between pulp vitality and the incidence of postoperative pain.

Single-visit or multiple-visit root canal treatment: systematic review, meta-analysis and trial sequential analysis

OBJECTIVES

Single-visit root canal treatment has some advantages over conventional multivisit treatment, but might increase the risk of complications. We systematically evaluated the risk of complications after single-visit or multiple-visit root canal treatment using meta-analysis and trial-sequential analysis.

DATA

Controlled trials comparing single-visit versus multiple-visit root canal treatment of permanent teeth were included. Trials needed to assess the risk of long-term complications (pain, infection, new/persisting/increasing periapical lesions ≥1 year after treatment), short-term pain or flare-up (acute exacerbation of initiation or continuation of root canal treatment).

SOURCES

Electronic databases (PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane Central) were screened, random-effects meta-analyses performed and trial-sequential analysis used to control for risk of random errors. Evidence was graded according to GRADE.

STUDY SELECTION

29 trials (4341 patients) were included, all but 6 showing high risk of bias. Based on 10 trials (1257 teeth), risk of complications was not significantly different in single-visit versus multiple-visit treatment (risk ratio (RR) 1.00 (95% CI 0.75 to 1.35); weak evidence). Based on 20 studies (3008 teeth), risk of pain did not significantly differ between treatments (RR 0.99 (95% CI 0.76 to 1.30); moderate evidence). Risk of flare-up was recorded by 8 studies (1110 teeth) and was significantly higher after single-visit versus multiple-visit treatment (RR 2.13 (95% CI 1.16 to 3.89); very weak evidence). Trial-sequential analysis revealed that firm evidence for benefit, harm or futility was not reached for any of the outcomes.

CONCLUSIONS

There is insufficient evidence to rule out whether important differences between both strategies exist.

CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE

Dentists can provide root canal treatment in 1 or multiple visits. Given the possibly increased risk of flare-ups, multiple-visit treatment might be preferred for certain teeth (eg, those with periapical lesions).

Single versus multiple visits for endodontic treatment of permanent teeth

BACKGROUND

Root canal treatment (RoCT), or endodontic treatment, is a common procedure in dentistry. The main indications for RoCT are irreversible pulpitis and necrosis of the dental pulp caused by carious processes, tooth cracks or chips, or dental trauma. Successful RoCT is characterised by an absence of symptoms (i.e. pain) and clinical signs (i.e. swelling and sinus tract) in teeth without radiographic evidence of periodontal involvement (i.e. normal periodontal ligament). The success of RoCT depends on a number of variables related to the preoperative condition of the tooth, as well as the endodontic procedures. This review updates the previous version published in 2007.

OBJECTIVES

To determine whether completion of root canal treatment (RoCT) in a single visit or over two or more visits, with or without medication, makes any difference in term of effectiveness or complications.

SEARCH METHODS

We searched the following electronic databases: Cochrane Oral Health's Trials Register (to 14 June 2016), Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL) (the Cochrane Library, 2016, Issue 5), MEDLINE Ovid (1946 to 14 June 2016), and Embase Ovid (1980 to 14 June 2016). We searched ClinicalTrials.gov and the World Health Organization International Clinical Trials Registry Platform for ongoing trials to 14 June 2016. We did not place any restrictions on the language or date of publication when searching the electronic databases.

SELECTION CRITERIA

We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and quasi-RCTs of people needing RoCT. We excluded surgical endodontic treatment. The outcomes of interest were tooth extraction for endodontic problems; radiological failure after at least one year, i.e. periapical radiolucency; postoperative pain; swelling or flare-up; painkiller use; sinus track or fistula formation; and complications (composite outcome including any adverse event).

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

We collected data using a specially designed extraction form. We contacted trial authors for further details where these were unclear. We assessed the risk of bias in the studies using the Cochrane tool and we assessed the quality of the body of evidence using GRADE criteria. When valid and relevant data were collected, we undertook a meta-analysis of the data using the random-effects model. For dichotomous outcomes, we calculated risk ratios (RRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs). For continuous data, we calculated mean differences (MDs) and 95% CIs. We examined potential sources of heterogeneity. We conducted subgroup analyses for necrotic and vital teeth.

MAIN RESULTS

We included 25 RCTs in the review, with a total of 3780 participants, of whom we analysed 3751. We judged three studies to be at low risk of bias, 14 at high risk, and eight as unclear.Only one study reported data on tooth extraction due to endodontic problems. This study found no difference between treatment in one visit or treatment over multiple visits (1/117 single-visit participants lost a tooth versus 2/103 multiple-visit participants; odds ratio (OR) 0.44, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.04 to 4.78; very low-quality evidence).We found no evidence of a difference between single-visit and multiple-visit treatment in terms of radiological failure (risk ratio (RR) 0.91, 95% CI 0.68 to 1.21; 1493 participants, 11 studies, I² = 18%; low-quality evidence); immediate postoperative pain (dichotomous outcome) (RR 0.99, 95% CI 0.84 to 1.17; 1560 participants, 9 studies, I² = 33%; moderate-quality evidence); swelling or flare-up incidence (RR 1.36, 95% CI 0.66 to 2.81; 281 participants, 4 studies, I² = 0%; low-quality evidence); sinus tract or fistula formation (RR 0.98, 95% CI 0.15 to 6.48; 345 participants, 2 studies, I² = 0%; low-quality evidence); or complications (RR 0.92, 95% CI 0.77 to 1.11; 1686 participants, 10 studies, I² = 18%; moderate-quality evidence).The studies suggested people undergoing RoCT in a single visit may be more likely to experience pain in the first week than those whose RoCT was over multiple visits (RR 1.50, 95% CI 0.99 to 2.28; 1383 participants, 8 studies, I² = 54%), though the quality of the evidence for this finding is low.Moderate-quality evidence showed people undergoing RoCT in a single visit were more likely to use painkillers than those receiving treatment over multiple visits (RR 2.35, 95% CI 1.60 to 3.45; 648 participants, 4 studies, I² = 0%).

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

There is no evidence to suggest that one treatment regimen (single-visit or multiple-visit root canal treatment) is better than the other. Neither can prevent all short- and long-term complications. On the basis of the available evidence, it seems likely that the benefit of a single-visit treatment, in terms of time and convenience, for both patient and dentist, has the cost of a higher frequency of late postoperative pain (and as a consequence, painkiller use).

Effect of Dexamethasone Intraligamentary Injection on Post-Endodontic Pain in Patients with Symptomatic Irreversible Pulpitis: A Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial

Introduction:

The aim of this randomized-controlled clinical trial was to assess the effect of intraligamentary (PDL) injection of dexamethasone on onset and severity of post-treatment pain in patients with symptomatic irreversible pulpitis.

Methods and Materials:

A total number of 60 volunteers were included according to the inclusion criteria and were assigned to three groups (n=20). After administration of local anesthesia and before treatment, group 1 (control) PDL injection was done with syringe containing empty cartridge, while in groups 2 and 3 the PDL injection was done with 0.2 mL of 2% lidocaine or dexamethasone (8 mg/2 mL), respectively. Immediately after endodontic treatment patients were requested to mark their level of pain on a visual analogue scale (VAS) during the next 48 h (on 6, 12, 24 and 48-h intervals). They were also asked to mention whether analgesics were taken and its dosage. Considering the 0-170 markings on the VAS ruler, the level of pain was scored as follows: score 0 (mild pain; 0-56), score 1 (moderate pain; 57-113) and score 3 (severe pain; 114-170). The data were analyzed using the Kruskal-Wallis and the Chi-square tests and the level of significance was set at 0.05.

Results:

After 6 and 12 h, group 1 and group 3 had the highest and lowest pain values, respectively (P<0.01 and P<0.001 for 6 and 12 h, respectively). However, after 24 and 48 h the difference in the pain was not significant between groups 1 and 2 (P<0.6) but group 3 had lower pain levels (P<0.01 and P<0.8 for 24 and 48 h, respectively).

Conclusion:

Pretreatment PDL injection of dexamethasone can significantly reduce the post-treatment endodontic pain in patients with symptomatic irreversible pulpitis.

Caries remineralisation and arresting effect in children by professionally applied fluoride treatment - a systematic review

BACKGROUND

As a low-cost and easily operated treatment, the use of professionally applied topical fluoride was approved for preventing dental caries and remineralising early enamel caries or white spot lesions. It is also used to arrest dentine caries. The aim of this study is to investigate the clinical efficacy of professional fluoride therapy in remineralising and arresting caries in children.

METHOD

A systematic search of publications from 1948 to 2014 was conducted using four databases: PubMed, Cochrane Library, ISI Web of Science and Embase. The key words used were (fluoride) AND (remineralisation OR remineralization OR arresting) AND (children caries OR early childhood caries). The title and abstract of initially identified publications were screened. Clinical trials about home-use fluorides, laboratory studies, case reports, reviews, non-English articles and irrelevant studies were excluded. The full texts of the remaining papers were retrieved. Manual screening was conducted on the bibliographies of the remaining papers to identify relevant articles.

RESULTS

A total of 2177 papers were found, and 17 randomised clinical trials were included in this review. Ten studies investigated the remineralising effect on early enamel caries using silicon tetrafluoride, fluoride gel, silver diamine fluoride or sodium fluoride. Seven studies reported an arresting effect on dentine caries using silver diamine fluoride or nano-silver fluoride. Meta-analysis was performed on four papers using 5 % sodium fluoride varnish to remineralise early enamel caries, and the overall percentage of remineralised enamel caries was 63.6 % (95 % CI: 36.0 % - 91.2 %; p < 0.001). Meta-analysis was also performed on five papers using 38 % silver diamine fluoride to arrest dentine caries and the overall proportion of arrested dentine caries was 65.9 % (95 % CI: 41.2 % - 90.7 %; p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Professionally applied 5 % sodium fluoride varnish can remineralise early enamel caries and 38 % silver diamine fluoride is effective in arresting dentine caries.

Treatment outcomes of single-visit versus multiple-visit non-surgical endodontic therapy: a randomised clinical trial

BACKGROUND

Clincians have been providing single-visit and multiple-visit endodontic treatments for their patients. This study aims to compare the success rate, prevalence of postoperative pain and chairside time of single-visit and multiple-visit endodontic treatments.

METHOD

Patients who required primary endodontic treatment in a university dental clinic were randomly allocated to two general dentists for single-visit or multiple-visit treatments using the same materials and procedures. Ni-Ti rotary files were used to prepare the root canals, which were subsequently obturated with a core-carrier technique. The chairside time was recorded. The treated teeth were followed up every 6 months on clinically signs and symptoms including pain, tenderness to percussion, sinus tract, mobility and abscess. Periapical radiographs were taken to assess periapical pathology. Successful treatments were neither clinical signs/symptoms noted nor radiographic periapical pathology found postoperatively.

RESULTS

A total of 220 teeth from patients aged 46.4 ± 14.1 were followed up for at least 18 months. The mean (±SD) follow-up period was 29.4 ± 9.3 months. The success rates of single-visit and multiple-visit treatments were 88.9 and 87.4 %, respectively (p = 0.729, effect size odds ratio = 1.156). Maxillary teeth had odds ratios of 3.16 (95 % CI: 1.33 to 7.46; p = 0.009) and absence of preoperative apical periodontitis had odds ratios of 4.35 (95 % CI: 1.43 to 13.24; p = 0.010) were identified from logistic regression as having a higher success rate. The average chairside times of single-visit and multiple-visit treatments were 62.0 and 92.9 min, respectively (mean difference = -30.9, 95 % CI: -39.4 to -22.4, p < 0.001, effect size odds ratio = -0.996). Single-visit and multiple-visit treatment had no significant difference in the prevalence of postoperative pain within 7 days (21 and 12 %, p = 0.055, effect size odds ratio = 2.061) and after at least 18 months (0.9 and 1.0 %, p > 0.999, effect size odds ratio = 0.879).

CONCLUSIONS

The success rate and prevalence of postoperative pain of single-visit or multiple-visit treatment had no significant difference. The chairside time for single-visit treatment was shorter than multiple-visit treatment.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

Clinical Trials (WHO) ChiCTR-IOR-15006117 registered on 20 March 2015.

Incidence of post-obturation pain after single-visit versus multiple-visit non-surgical endodontic treatments

BACKGROUND

Post-obturation pain is frustrating to both patients and dentists. Its incidence may change with the use of contemporary endodontic techniques. This randomised clinical trial aims to compare the incidence of post-obturation pain at one and seven days after single-visit and multiple-visit non-surgical endodontic treatments.

METHODS

Patients who required primary endodontic treatment in the two clinical trial centres in Hong Kong (HK) and in Beijing (PK) were recruited. Three HK dentists and three PK dentists performed endodontic treatments on 567 teeth using the same procedures and materials, either in a single visit or over multiple visits, using either core carrier or cold lateral condensation for obturation.

RESULTS

The attrition rate was 5.1%, and a total of 538 teeth were evaluated. Among these teeth, 232 (43%) were operated in HK, 275 (51%) were treated in a single visit, and 234 (43%) were treated using core carrier obturation. Logistic regression analysis showed that teeth with apical periodontitis (OR = 0.35, 95% CI = 0.21-0.57, p < 0.01) and less pre-operative pain (OR = 1.10, 95% CI = 1.03-1.18, p < 0.01) had lower incidences of post-obturation pain after one day. The incidences of post-obturation pain after one day for single-visit and multiple-visit treatments were 24.7% (68 of 275) and 33.5% (88 of 263), respectively (p = 0.50). The incidences of post-obturation pain after seven days for single-visit and multiple-visit treatments were 4.0% (11 of 275) and 5.3% (14 of 263), respectively (p = 0.47).

CONCLUSIONS

There was no significant difference in the incidences of post-obturation pain after one day and seven days with single-visit or multiple-visit endodontic treatments.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ChiCTR-IOR-15005989.