Endodontic flare up: incidence and association of possible risk factors

Abstract

Background-. Endodontic emergency during root canal treatment (flare-up) is a common occurrence in multivisit root can l treatment (RCT) and it may be associated with many factors. The occurrence however can affect the prognosis of the tooth and the patient - clinician relationship. Aim: To determine the incidence and risk factors associated with occurrence of fare-up in a multi visit RCT. Methodology: Patients planned for multi-visit (RCT) were recruited for the research. Standard protocol was followed in all cases. After the first visit, the patients were followed up for possible development of Hare up. Patients' demographics, presence or absence of preoperative pain, status of the pulp and occurrence of Hare up were among the data collected. Data was analyzed using SPS S version 2 0 with level of significance set at P <0.05. Result: A total of 106 root treated teeth were analyzed in patients aged 17 to 73ycars with a mean of 33±13.2 and male to female ratio of 1:1.5. Incidence of Hare up was 8.5%. Prior to treatment, 4 7 % of the cases had pain, 61.3% had apical radiolucency and 8 3% had pulpal necrosis. Majority (7, 77.8%) of the Hare up occurred after the first visit (p=0.000). Only pre-treatment pain had a statistical significant relationship with occurrence of Hare up (p=0.009). Conclusion: Incidence of flare up was 8.5% and the major risk factor was preoperative pain. First visit in a multi visit RCT is an important stage which if well handled, can reduce the incidence of flare up.