Impact of intracanal cryotherapy on postoperative pain and antimicrobial efficacy in primary teeth: A randomized clinical trial
Itika Jain, Shivani Mathur, Sakshi Joshi, Diksha Bhat, Shikha Choubey, Urvashi VermaABSTRACT
Context:
Postoperative pain and persistent microbial contamination remain significant challenges in pediatric endodontics following pulpectomy. Intracanal cryotherapy has emerged as a promising adjunct because of its anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antimicrobial properties. However, its effectiveness requires further clinical evaluation.
Aim:
The aim of the study was to compare the effect of intracanal cryotherapy using cold saline (2°C–4°C) with room temperature saline (25°C–30°C) on postoperative pain and antimicrobial efficacy during the pulpectomy procedure in primary teeth.
Settings and Design:
A randomized clinical trial was conducted involving 30 children (3–7 years) requiring pulpectomy in primary teeth.
Materials and Methods:
Participants were randomly allocated into two groups: Group I (room temperature saline) and Group II (cryotherapy with cold saline). Postoperative pain was assessed using the Wong–Baker Faces Pain Rating Scale at 6, 24, 48, and 72 h posttreatment. Antimicrobial efficacy was evaluated by comparing colony-forming units (CFUs) before and after irrigation via microbiological analysis.
Statistical Analysis:
Data were analyzed using SPSS v26.0. Paired
Results:
Both groups showed significant intragroup pain reduction over 6, 24, 48, and 72 h (
Conclusions:
Intracanal cryotherapy with cold saline is an effective, simple, and cost-efficient method for reducing postoperative pain and enhancing antimicrobial efficacy in primary teeth pulpectomy.