A clinical radiographic retrospective assessment of the success rate of single-visit root canal treatment

AIM: To determine retrospectively the clinical and radiographic success rate of single-visit root canal treatment performed in a busy endodontic practice using contemporary techniques of canal cleaning, shaping and obturation. SUMMARY: Seven hundred and sixty-eight single-visit cases, of which 223 presented for a re-examination appointment ranging from 6 months to 4 years from the day of treatment, were considered. Four endodontists provided examinations for both root canal treatment and re-examinations. Clinical and radiographic data were used to form an overall impression of the outcomes for each case at the time of re-examination. Available demographics and treatment information of these 223 cases were compiled for comparison. The number of treatment visits was not determined by a pretreatment diagnosis or a re-assessment of the pulp status upon entry into the tooth; therefore both vital and necrotic cases, as well as those with and without periradicular pathosis, were included. Statistical analysis was carried out using Chi-square tests and considered variations in failure rates based on gender, provider, tooth type, position and arch. A t-test was used to evaluate data on age. The overall success rate was 89.2%. No statistically significant differences were seen based on gender, age, arch or provider. Statistically, anterior teeth were more successful than posterior teeth.