Evaluation of Postendodontic Pain Using Multiple and Single Rotary File Systems in Single-Visit Endodontics - A Comparative Study

ABSTRACT Background: Postendodontic pain is a common concern following root canal treatment. The rotary file system used during the procedure significantly influences this pain. Materials and Methods: A total of 60 patients requiring single-visit root canal treatment on single-rooted teeth were divided into two groups: group A (n = 30) treated using multiple rotary file systems, and group B (n = 30) treated using a single rotary file system. Postendodontic pain was assessed using a visual analog scale (VAS) at 6, 24, and 48 hours post-treatment. Statistical analysis was performed using the Chi-square test and independent t-test, with significance set at P < 0.05. Results: At 6 hours, group A reported a mean VAS score of 4.2 ± 0.8, while group B reported 3.1 ± 0.7 (P < 0.05). At 24 hours, the scores decreased to 2.8 ± 0.5 and 1.9 ± 0.6, respectively (P < 0.05). At 48 hours, both groups reported minimal pain, with mean scores of 0.8 ± 0.3 for group A and 0.5 ± 0.2 for group B (P > 0.05). Overall, the single rotary file system demonstrated significantly lower pain levels compared to the multiple file system during the first 24 hours. Conclusion: Single rotary file systems result in significantly less postendodontic pain compared to multiple rotary file systems in single-visit endodontics. These findings suggest that the single rotary file system may be preferable for reducing patient discomfort during the early postoperative period.