Evaluation of postoperative pain in endodontic treatments, with sodium hypochlorite solution and gel as an auxiliary chemical substance

Aim: This study aimed to assess postoperative pain incidence in asymptomatic upper premolars with pulp necrosis and chronic periapical lesions undergoing endodontic intervention. Methodology: Sixty-six patients were divided into three groups (n=22): Group SHG/SS used 3% sodium hypochlorite (SH) gel and saline solution (SS). Group SHG/S employed 3% SH gel and 2.5% SH solution (S). Group SHS/S used 2.5% SH solution for both purposes. Procedures lasted 40 to 60 minutes, conducted by the same operator in a single session. Clinical data was recorded, and postoperative pain was evaluated at 24, 48, and 72 hours using a modified Numeric Rating Scale. Statistical analysis was applied to the collected data. Results: Within the first 24 hours, auxiliary chemical substances significantly impacted postoperative pain (p = 0.021). SHS/S showed lower pain scores compared to SHG/S, while SHG/SS scores were intermediate. At 48 hours (p = 0.548) and 72 hours (p = 0.127), postoperative pain did not show statistical significance. SHS/S and SHG/SS did not significantly influence postoperative pain, but SHG/S had an impact. Conclusions: Postoperative pain did not significantly differ at 48 and 72 hours. SHG/S and SHG/SS did not markedly influence postoperative pain. Notably, the use of 3% SH gel with 2.5% SH solution increased postoperative pain levels.