Effect of the Type of the Anesthetic Solution on the Incidence of Pulp Necrosis Following Crown Preparation: A Randomized Clinical Study

Abstract

Aim: The objective of the present study was to evaluate the effect of the type of the anesthetic solution (with or without epinephrine) on the development of pulp necrosis after tooth preparation. Methods: Seventy-two patients were randomly allocated into 2 groups according to the type of the anesthetic solution used. In the first group, 4% articaine with 1:100.000 epinephrine was used as local anesthesia and in the second group, 3% plain mepivacaine was used. Before administration of the anesthetic solution, electric pulp tester (EPT) and cold test were used to test the vitality of the teeth. The teeth were then prepared and provisional crowns were fabricated chairside. After 15 days, the provisional crowns were removed and then the EPT procedures and cold test were repeated. Postoperative pain level on days 1, 3, 5 and 15 were recorded. The EPT scores and pain levels were statistically analyzed. Results: A statistically significant difference was observed between the groups in terms of percentage change in EPT scores. Conclusion: The type of the anesthetic solution does not affect the vitality of the teeth after full-crown preparation.