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Pain associated with root canal treatment
J J Segura-Egea1, R Cisneros-Cabello, J M Llamas-Carreras
1Department of Stomatology, School of Dentistry, University of Seville, Seville, Spain. segurajj@us.es
International Endodontic Journal
|May 27, 2009
Summary
Most patients experience minimal pain during root canal treatment, with pain more likely in mandibular teeth and during longer procedures. Specific diagnoses like irreversible pulpitis increase pain risk.
Area of Science:
- Endodontics
- Pain Management
- Dental Anesthesia
Background:
- Root canal treatment aims to alleviate tooth pain but can itself cause discomfort.
- Understanding pain perception during endodontic procedures is crucial for patient management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To quantify pain experienced during root canal treatment.
- To identify factors correlating with pain, including age, gender, diagnosis, and treatment duration.
Main Methods:
- 176 patients (6-83 years) rated pain using a 10-cm visual analogue scale (VAS).
- Data analyzed for correlations with patient demographics, dental characteristics, and procedure length.
Main Results:
- Mean pain score was low (1.2/10), with 54% reporting no pain.
- Mandibular teeth and posterior teeth showed higher pain incidence.
- Treatments under 45 minutes and anterior teeth had less pain.
- Irreversible pulpitis and acute apical periodontitis were associated with significantly higher pain.
Conclusions:
- Root canal treatment is generally well-tolerated, but pain is more likely with specific diagnoses and longer procedures.
- Factors like tooth location, diagnosis, and treatment length influence pain.
- This data aids dentists in deciding on supplemental anesthesia to improve patient comfort.
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