Clinical and Radiographic Outcomes of Pulpectomy in Primary Second Molars with a History of Abscess or Facial Cellulitis: A Comparative Clinical Study
Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: Introduction Odontogenic infections originating from primary teeth remain a frequent cause of pain, facial swelling, and systemic complications in children. Although pulpectomy is the treatment of choice for necrotic primary teeth, the influence of a previous history of abscess or facial cellulitis on treatment prognosis remains controversial. This study aimed to compare the clinical and radiographic success of pulpectomy in primary second molars with a history of abscess or facial cellulitis and those with irreversible pulpitis without prior infection. Materials and Methods This clinical study included 58 primary second molars in children aged 3–9 years (n=58). Teeth were allocated into a case group (necrotic teeth with a history of acute or chronic abscess or facial cellulitis, treated with two-visit pulpectomy) and a control group (vital teeth with irreversible pulpitis, treated with single-visit pulpectomy). All canals were instrumented manually, obturated with zinc oxide–eugenol, and restored with stainless steel crowns. Clinical and radiographic outcomes were evaluated after 6 months. Fisher’s exact test was used for statistical analysis. Fisher’s exact test was used for statistical analysis, and Relative Risk (RR) and Absolute Risk Reduction (ARR) were calculated. A p -value less than 0.05 was considered significant. Results Radiographic success was 89.7% in the case group and 88.9% in the control group ( p = 1.00). Clinical success was 96.6% and 96.3%, respectively ( p = 1.00). No statistically significant differences were observed between groups in any radiographic or clinical subgroup outcomes. Discussion Pulpectomy in necrotic primary second molars with a history of abscess or facial cellulitis demonstrates clinical and radiographic outcomes comparable to those of vital teeth. Conclusion When infection is properly managed and standard endodontic and restorative protocols are followed, prior odontogenic infection does not negatively affect prognosis.
Source: The Open Dentistry Journal
Institution: Tabriz University of Medical Sciences
Language: English
Subfield: Oral Surgery
Field: Dentistry
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
OpenAlex ID: W7225750050