METHODS: This study enrolled patients (N = 36) who required root canal retreatment (RCR) on mandibular molar teeth, presented with periapical lesions with periapical index scores of 2 or 3, and had a pain visual analog scale (VAS) <50 and a percussion pain VAS <50. The participants were divided into 2 groups: (1) patients scheduled for RCR followed by LLLT (n = 18) and (2) patients scheduled for RCR followed by a mock LLLT (placebo) (n = 18). Postoperative pain was assessed using the VAS. Data were collected and statistically analyzed with the chi-square test, the independent sample t test, and the Mann-Whitney U test (P = .05).
RESULTS: On the first 4 days, postoperative pain significantly reduced in the LLLT group compared with the placebo group (P .05). The number of patients who needed analgesics was lower in the LLLT group than in the placebo group (P
METHODS: Fifty-six mature necrotic teeth with large periapical radiolucencies were distributed into 2 groups: group 1, REPs and group 2, CRCT (n = 28/group). Clinical and radiographic follow-up assessments were undertaken up to 12 months. Statistical analysis was performed using the independent samples t test and the chi-square test, and the level of significance was set at P = .05.
RESULTS: With a follow-up rate of about 73.4% of the total patients for 12 months, favorable clinical and radiographic outcomes were found in 92.3% and 80% in REPs and CRCT groups, respectively, and the difference was not statistically significant (P > .05). Half of the teeth treated with REPs responded to the electric pulp test.
CONCLUSIONS: Regenerative endodontic procedures have the potential to be used as a treatment option for mature teeth with large periapical radiolucencies.