When to install the endodontic post? First visit with root canal filling versus a separate second visit for post-restoration: A randomized controlled trial

Background The vibrations created by post-space preparation during the first visit for endodontic treatment could have a significant effect on the intensity of post-operative pain than that association with post-space preparation at the second appointment. Objective The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of vibrations generated during post-installation, on post-operative pain in endodontically treated teeth. Methods One hundred patients with asymptomatic teeth requiring primary root canal treatment and post-installation were enrolled in this study. Fifty patients underwent endodontic treatment with post-installation at the first visit (group 1), while the remaining 50 patients underwent post-installation at the second visit (group 2). The intensity of post-operative pain in both groups was evaluated 1, 2, 3 days and 1 week after the first visit using the visual analogue scale. The time required to achieve complete pain relief for each patient was also recorded. The patients' age, sex, tooth type, size of the periapical lesion and time required for complete post-operative pain relief for each tooth were recorded. Results The pain intensity score was significantly higher in group 1 than group 2 (P < .05). No significant differences were observed in parameters such as sex, tooth type, jaw and size of the periapical lesion (P > .05), whereas age had a significant effect on the post-operative pain scores (P < .05). Conclusion Vibrations occurring during post-installation on the same visit as that of root canal filling may increase the post-operative pain.