Evaluation of conservative access cavity preparation on the discoloration of endodontically treated anterior teeth compared to conventional access cavity preparation

Aim: The objective of this study was to compare the discoloration of endodontically treated maxillary anterior teeth with traditional and conservative access cavity preparations. Methods: this study was an in vitro study, sixty intact central and lateral maxillary incisors were randomly divided into two groups: (A) conventional access cavity and (B) conservative access cavity. Access cavities were prepared, followed by root canal treatment and restoration. Spectrophotometer measurements were taken to assess tooth discoloration 2 and 3 months after the final sealer setting. T -test was used to analyze and compare mean color change values (∆E) between the two groups. Results: The results showed a significant difference in discoloration between the two groups at the time interval between 2 and 3 months after the sealer’s final setting. The conservative access cavity exhibited significantly higher average color change values (∆E = 19.20) compared to the traditional access cavity (∆E = 2.97) ( P < 0.001). Conclusion: Based on the clinically unacceptable discoloration observed in the conservative access cavity and the clinically acceptable discoloration in the conventional access cavity at 3 months' follow-up, it can be concluded that the conservative access cavity is not a suitable alternative when considering tooth discoloration. This study highlights the importance of selecting the appropriate access cavity preparation technique to minimize esthetic concerns in endodontically treated anterior teeth.