Single-Visit versus Dual-Visit Endodontics— A Comparative Study

Abstract

Traditionally root canal treatment was completed in multiple visits so as to eradicate microorganisms and maintain sterility of prepared canals. Currently evidence based studies have shown that there no difference in healing potentiality of single visit as opposed to dual or multiple visits. Modern concepts and protocols in diagnosis, instrumentation, disinfection and obturation systems have made single visit endodontics (SVE) a faster regimen with a predictive outcome. Clinical study aimed to investigate the effectiveness of single visit as compared with dual visit endodontics was conducted. 399 adult patients with pulpal and periapical diseases of endodontic origin who were selected for endodontic therapy in various dental centres in Delhi were included in the study. 201 cases underwent single sitting (Group A) and 198 were treated in two visits (Group B). Endodontic failure rate of 3.68% was observed in single visit group as opposed to 4.78% in dual visit. Though statistically there was no significant difference in outcome of both protocols, the advantages of SVE outweigh those of dual visit. Thus single visit endodontics can serve as an acceptable, alternative treatment modality as compared to dual or multiple visit endodontics.