The effect of two different irrigation needles on post-operative pain after pulpectomy in primary molar teeth: A randomized clinical study.

BACKGROUND: Post-operative pain (PP) following pulpectomy is of concern for endodontic patients and dentists. AIM: This study evaluated the intensity of PP following pulpectomy in primary maxillary molars, using two irrigation needles. DESIGN: One hundred patients in ages ranging from 6-9 years requiring pulpectomy for asymptomatic primary teeth with non-vital pulp were included in the study. The participants were randomly assigned to two groups of 50 patients each, according to the type of irrigation needle used, that is, a conventional open-ended needle and a double side-vented needle. The teeth were obturated and then permanently restored. The presence of PP was assessed after six, 12, 24, 48, and 72 hours, and finally after one week, using a four-point pain intensity scale. The PP scores were then statistically analysed. RESULTS: In 6, 12, and 24 hours time intervals, patients who had their teeth irrigated with the open-ended needle exhibited more intense PP than those who had their teeth irrigated with a double side-vented needle (P < .05). After 48 hours, 72 hours, and 1 week, however there was no significant difference between the groups (P > .05). CONCLUSIONS: Side-vented needles may be preferred in order to decrease PP at the first 24 hours after pulpectomy in primary molars.