Effect of calcium hypochlorite and sodium hypochlorite on postoperative pain in necrotic pulps: A randomized clinical trial.

Background: This randomized clinical trial evaluated postoperative pain and analgesic intake in patients with pulp necrosis and asymptomatic chronic apical periodontitis. Material and Methods: Sixty-three patients were randomly assigned to two groups receiving root canal irrigation with either 2.5% calcium hypochlorite (Ca (OCl)2) or 2.5% sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl). Root canal preparation was performed using rotary instruments, and all canals were filled in a single visit. Postoperative pain was assessed using a 0-10 numerical rating scale at 24, 48, and 72 hours, and one-week post-treatment. Analgesic intake was also recorded. Statistical analysis was performed using Fisher's exact test. Results: No significant differences in pain levels were observed between groups at 24 hours (p = 0.601) or other time points. Most patients (95.2%) reported no pain, 3.1% mild pain, and 1.5% severe pain. Analgesic intake was reported by only one patient. Conclusions: Calcium hypochlorite is a promising irrigant for endodontic treatment, showing comparable postoperative pain outcomes to sodium hypochlorite.