Role of Propolis Endodontic Irrigant on Post-Operative Pain

Sodium hypochlorite as an endodontic irrigant, poses problems of toxicity. Additionally, its unfavorable odor, taste, failure to remove the smear layer, and proteolytic effect have deleterious effects on the dentine, creating unfavorable structural and mechanical alterations . To get beyond NaOCl limits and adverse effects, it is necessary to look for a biocompatible, equally effective, and dentine friendly irrigant with greater patient acceptance in taste and odor.

The literature lacks an in-vivo study that investigates the anti-inflammatory with analgesic characteristics of Propolis on post-endodontic pain as an irrigant, in patients with symptomatic irreversible pulpitis. This research will endeavor to fill this gap in literature.

Inclusion criteria

• ASA-I and II individuals who are between the ages of 18 and 60 years.
• Patients with mandibular and maxillary premolars who have been diagnosed with symptomatic irreversible pulpitis (with either a normal periapex or symptomatic apical periodontitis).
• Patients who score moderate to severe (4-10) on a preoperative visual analogue scale (VAS=1-10)

Exclusion criteria

• Patients suffering from severe pain because of traumatic occlusion.
• Teeth with extensive damage, calcified canals, periapical radiolucency, root resorption, and an open apex.
• Patients with compromised medical condition (ASA-III and above)
• Patients who are unable to communicate effectively in either Urdu or English.
• Pregnant and lactating ladies
• Patients who are allergic to honey or bee pollen.