Ehrmann Ernest H, Messer Harold H, Clark Robert M
School of Dental Science, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Carlton, Victoria, Australia.
Aust Endod J. 2007 Dec;33(3):119-30. doi: 10.1111/j.1747-4477.2007.00087.x.
The purpose of this research is to investigate the frequency of endodontic flare-ups using a visual analogue scale. Definitions of flare-ups vary widely as does their reported frequency. A flare-up was defined as an increase of 20 or more points on the visual analogue scale for a given tooth, within the periods of 4 h and 24 h after the initial treatment appointment. The data from a previous study were used to determine the incidence of flare-ups after using three modalities (Ledermix, calcium hydroxide and no medication) to manage patients presenting for relief of pain of endodontic origin. A statistical analysis showed that there were no significant differences in flare-up rates at both the 4-h and 24-h periods between the three modalities. Further research is required using the above definition of a flare-up and standardising treatment protocols.
