Outcome of orthograde endodontic retreatment--A two-year follow-up.

Introduction: Endodontic retreatment is a complex intervention that requires detailed analysis of possible reasons for failure, and flawless practical execution of the procedure.

Objective: The aim of the study was to assess the outcome of endodontic retreatment based on clinical and radiographic criteria after a two-year observation period.

Methods: Clinical study included 49 teeth indicated for endodontic retreatment based on periapical index (PAI). All teeth were divided into two groups. Group I comprised teeth without any periapical lesion (PAI score of 1 and 2) while Group II consisted of teeth with visible periapical radiolucency (PAI score of 3, 4, and 5). Endodontic retreatment was completed in two visits with inter-appointment medication of 2% chlorhexidine and calcium hydroxide for two weeks. Outcome of endodontic retreatment was evaluated 12-24 months after final obturation.

Results: Endodontic retreatment was successful in 93.3% in Group I after 24 months. In Group II, successful treatment and complete healing was found in 52.9% of teeth, whereas 14.7% of teeth showed only partial healing. However, clinical symptomatology was not present in any of the cases. Considering the absence of clinical signs and subjective symptoms, retreatment was successful in 67.6% of cases where chronic periapical inflammation was present.

Conclusion: Endodontic retreatment was successful in high percentage in teeth with and without periapical lesions.