Retrospective Study on Effect of Transitional Root Canal Treatment for Acute Pulpitis during Pregnancy on Pregnancy Outcomes

doi:10.13701/j.cnki.kqyxyj.2026.10.008

Abstract

Abstract: Objective: To evaluate the safety of transitional root canal therapy for acute pulpitis during pregnancy and investigate the perceptions regarding its safety among dental practitioners and pregnant women. Methods: The study was conducted among pregnant women with acute pulpitis between 2021 and 2024. The pain relief and pregnancy outcomes after transitional root canal therapy were recorded by follow-up phone calls. A questionnaire survey was conducted in April 2025 among pregnant women enrolled in Maternal and Child Health Hospitals to evaluate their knowledge of prenatal oral health. Meanwhile, an online survey was administered among general dentists in non-Maternal and Child Health Hospitals regarding their clinical decision-making for transitional root canal therapy in pregnant patients. Results: All 50 cases receiving transitional root canal therapy demonstrated favorable pregnancy outcomes without complications. Complete pain resolution was achieved in 49 cases, with pain relief observed in 1 remaining case. Among 103 surveyed pregnant women, 85.19% expressed concerns about potential fetal impacts from root canal treatment. Of 60 surveyed dentists, 61.67% exhibited hesitation in performing transitional root canal therapy during pregnancy. 35% of dental practitioners refused to perform root canal therapy. Conclusion: No adverse effects of transitional root canal treatment on pregnancy outcomes was found. However, significant safety concerns persist among both general dental practitioners and pregnant populations. These findings highlight the necessity for targeted training programs in pregnancy-related endodontic management for dentists and emphasize the importance of health education about acute pulpitis during gestation.

Key words: acute pulpitis, pregnancy, pregnancy outcomes

SU Chaonan, YANG Xianghui. Retrospective Study on Effect of Transitional Root Canal Treatment for Acute Pulpitis during Pregnancy on Pregnancy Outcomes[J]. Journal of Oral Science Research, 2026, 42(10): 872-876.

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