Objective: The study highlighted the effect of patient-related factors on levels of pain felt by subjects during root canal treatment, as well as the association between treatment duration and pain severity. Study design maxillary central incisors with either necrotic pulp or irreversibly inflamed pulp, with or without pre operative pain were studied in 160 subjects aged 18 years and above. Subject’s age and gender, as well as pulp status and pre operative pain status were recorded. The procedure was done using a standard protocol visual analogue scale (VAS) was used to record the level of pain felt., Results: Those with irreversible pulpitis felt higher pain. None with necrotic pulp experienced intense pain, while those in the 51 -60+ year age band had severe, unbearable or intense pain. Mild pain was a common denominator in all age bands. Pain level increased with treatment duration., Conclusion: Supplemental local anesthesia should be employed in women and in teeth with irreversible pulpitis, while efforts should be made to accomplish procedures within a reasonable time.

Key Words: Flare-up, root canal therapy, pain level, maxillary central incisor, visual analogue scale.