Tooth Crown Discoloration Caused by Endodontic Treatment: Cross-sectional Clinical Study

This cross-sectional clinical study will evaluate the color difference (∆E00), and CIELAB coordinates (L*, a*, and b*) of endodontic treated teeth in the 3 conditions (baseline, homologous tooth versus ≤ 1 month after tooth endodontic treatment); (baseline, homologous tooth versus > 1 to 12 months after tooth endodontic treatment); (baseline, homologous tooth versus > 12 up to 5 years after tooth endodontic treatment). The following pairs of variables will be considered in the comparisons: filling material (AH Plus and Endofill/Fillcanal/MTA Fillapex); cut at cervical level (dental cervix and 2mm in the apical direction); and location tooth (anterior and posterior teeth).

The response variables will include the color difference (∆E00), estimated by the CIEDE2000 color difference metric (ΔE00) obtained from readings made on the homologous tooth of the endodontic treated (baseline) and tooth endodontic treated (after) with a spectrophotometer.

All individuals who came to a private dental clinic between January 2010 and December 2018 and who received endodontic treatment will be considered for participation in this study. The following inclusion criteria will be used to evaluate and enroll potential participants: individuals at least 18 years old; who received anterior or posterior (pre-molar) endodontic treatment and who present homologous tooth with pulp vitality and at least 1/3 of the remaining coronary, without endodontic treatment, intraradicular retentor or crown making dental color assessment impossible. Besides, will be excluded questionnaires filled incorrectly or lack of data regarding, the day, month and year of endodontic treatment finish, sealer used, the pulp condition at the time of the first consultation (irreversible pulpitis or pulpal necrosis) and periapical radiography, obtained with the use of radiographic positioner, preserved and with a clear image. All individuals who agree to participate in the study will sign a consent form based on the Declaration of Helsinki, after receiving information about the study objectives, risks, and benefits associated with the alternative treatment options and procedures. One examiner will be trained and calibrated prior to data collection. Kappa statistics will be used to assess intra-examiner reliability. Clinical, radiographic and color information will be collected.