Comparative evaluation of postoperative pain using continuous and reciprocating motion rotary file systems – A clinical trial

Authors: sonal mukhraiya, apoorva sharma, MANSI PUNJABI, rohit kochhar, manju kumari

DOI: 10.18231/j.ijce.12278.1758516420

Keywords: Post-operative pain, root canal therapy, rotary instrumentation, reciprocating files, continuous motion, endodontics.

Abstract: Aim: The aim of this study was to comparatively evaluate post-operative pain using ProTaper Next and TruNatomy rotary files in continuous motion and One RECI and Neo-endo reciprocation files in reciprocating motion. Materials and Methods: A total of 100 patients indicated for root canal therapy were randomly allocated into five groups: Control Group: Hand ProTaper, Group 1: ProTaper Next (continuous motion), Group 2: TruNatomy (continuous motion), Group 3: One RECI (reciprocating motion), Group 4: Neo-Endo (reciprocating motion). All procedures were performed using standardized protocols. Pain intensity was measured using the Numerical Rating Scale (NRS) at 8, 24, 48, and 72 hours post-operatively. The data were analyzed statistically using SPSS software. Results: At 8 and 24 hours, the ProTaper Next group reported the highest pain levels (3.65 ± 3.64 and 4.05 ± 3.49), while the One RECI group showed the lowest scores (0.60 ± 0.82 and 0.10 ± 0.31). Pain levels decreased across all groups at 48 hours, with One RECI reporting no pain (0.00 ± 0.00). By 72 hours, One RECI and Neo-Endo groups demonstrated minimal pain, whereas the ProTaper Next group continued to show the highest post operative discomfort (3.20 ± 3.30). Conclusion: Reciprocating file systems such as One RECI and Neo-Endo resulted in significantly lower post-operative pain compared to continuous motion systems. These findings suggest a clinical advantage of reciprocating motion in improving patient comfort after endodontic treatment.