Assessment of possible risk indicators for apical periodontitis in root-filled teeth in an adult Turkish population

Objective The objective of this study was to determine possible independent risk indicators of apical periodontitis (AP) in root-filled teeth in an adult Turkish population. Study design This study included subjects older than 15 years who had 1 or more root-filled teeth examined at the Baskent University Faculty of Dentistry. A total of 812 root-filled teeth were evaluated in 425 individuals. AP was the dependent variable and age, gender, length and density of root fillings, presence of periodontal problems, posts, localization of tooth, and tooth type were identified as independent variables. Generalized Estimating Equation (GEE) models were used in statistical analysis. Results AP was detected on 148 teeth (18.2%) in 812 root-filled teeth. According to multiple GEE model, males were more likely to have AP than females. Of the dental variables, length of root fillings, periodontal problems and tooth type were significantly associated with AP. Conclusions The present study indicates that to be male and dental variables including length of root fillings, periodontal problems, and molar teeth were significantly associated with AP.