Effect of Calcium Hydroxide vs. Tobradex Intracanal Medicament on Postoperative Endodontic Pain: A Prospective Trial

This prospective clinical study investigates the effect of two commonly used intracanal medicaments-calcium hydroxide and a tobramycin-dexamethasone combination (Tobradex)-on postoperative pain following emergency root canal treatment. Postoperative pain remains a frequent concern after endodontic emergency procedures, particularly in teeth diagnosed with symptomatic irreversible pulpitis. While calcium hydroxide is widely used for its antimicrobial properties, evidence regarding its effectiveness in pain control is inconsistent. In contrast, intracanal medicaments containing corticosteroids have shown promise in reducing inflammation-related pain, yet limited clinical data are available for alternative steroid-antibiotic formulations such as Tobradex.

Patients presenting with acute endodontic pain and requiring emergency root canal treatment received standardized clinical care. Following canal debridement and irrigation, an intracanal medicament was placed, and the access cavity was temporized. The choice of medicament depended on availability during the emergency visit, reflecting real-world clinical practice. Pain intensity was assessed using a numeric rating scale at baseline and during the early postoperative period, allowing evaluation of both immediate and short-term pain reduction.

The primary focus of the study was to compare the magnitude and timing of pain relief achieved by the two medicaments within the first 48 hours after treatment. Secondary objectives included exploring whether patient-related factors, such as age or gender, influenced postoperative pain reduction. By examining pain outcomes during this critical early period, the study aims to clarify the potential benefit of incorporating a corticosteroid-antibiotic combination as an intracanal medicament in emergency endodontic care.

The findings of this study are intended to inform clinical decision-making regarding inter-appointment pain management and to provide preliminary evidence supporting alternative intracanal medicament strategies that prioritize patient comfort without compromising antimicrobial control.