Retreatment versus initial root canal treatment: Factors affecting posttreatment pain

Objective. The purpose of this study was to determine the factors associate d with posttreatment pain in patients receiving root canal retreatment (RCR ) and in those receiving initial root canal treatment (IRCT). Study design. Eighty four patients scheduled for RCR or IRCT completed ques tionnaires on pretreatment pain levels (Visual Analogue Scale, 0-100) and d emographic data. Diagnosis and original obturating material, if applicable, were also recorded, and treatment was initiated. At 4, 8, 12, 24, 48, 72, 96, and 120 hours, patients recorded posttreatment pain levels. Seventy one patients returned completed questionnaires. Results. There was no significant difference in posttreatment pain with res pect to patients undergoing RCR and patients undergoing IRCT, type of origi nal obturating material, or pretreatment diagnosis. Posttreatment pain leve ls were significantly increased at 4, 8, and 12 hours after treatment. Pati ents reporting higher levels of pretreatment pain (Visual Analogue Scale > 20) had significantly increased posttreatment pain (P < .05) up to 24 hours after the procedure. Conclusions. Pretreatment pain level influenced posttreatment pain more tha n RCR or IRCT, the type of original obturating material, or the pretreatmen t diagnosis.