Comparative Evaluation of the Effect of Prophylactic Intraligamentary Injection of Dexamethasone and Piroxicam on Postoperative Pain in Teeth With Symptomatic Irreversible Pulpitis

Comparative Evaluation of the Effect of a Prophylactic Intraligamentary Injection of Dexamethasone and Piroxicam on Postoperative Pain in Teeth With Symptomatic Irreversible Pulpitis: A Randomized Controlled Trial

the study is conducted to assess and compare the efficacy of local intraligamentary injection of glucocorticoids(dexamethasone) and NSAID(piroxicam) on reduction of postoperative pain in patients with symptomatic irreversible pulpitis.

Inclusion Criteria:

1. Systemically healthy patient (ASA I or II).

2. Mandibular Posterior teeth with:

   • Preoperative sharp pain.
   • Absence of widening in the periodontal ligament (PDL).
   • Vital response of pulp tissue to cold pulp tester (ethyl chloride spray).

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Patients allergic to anesthetics, piroxicam (any other NSAIDs) or dexamethasone (other corticosteroids).
2. Pregnant or nursing females.
3. Patients having significant systemic disorder (ASA III or IV).
4. Hemostatic disorders or anti-coagulant therapy during the last month.
5. Consumption of opioid or non-opioid analgesics or corticosteroids during the last 12 hrs before treatment.
6. Retreatment cases.