Int Endod J. 2026 Jul 27. doi: 10.1111/iej.70242. Online ahead of print.
ABSTRACT
BACKGROUND: Condensing osteitis is a radiopaque periapical condition associated with chronic low-grade inflammatory stimuli of endodontic origin. Despite being frequently observed in dental practice, its reported prevalence varies considerably due to methodological and diagnostic inconsistencies across studies.
OBJECTIVES: This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to estimate the pooled prevalence of condensing osteitis in dentate populations undergoing radiographic examination.
METHODS: A comprehensive search was conducted in PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, Web of Science and Embase up to March 2026. Observational studies reporting the prevalence of condensing osteitis were included. Data extraction and risk of bias assessment were performed using the Joanna Briggs Institute checklist. A random-effects meta-analysis with logit transformation was applied. Heterogeneity was assessed using the I2 statistic. Subgroup and sensitivity analyses were conducted and certainty of evidence was evaluated using GRADE.
RESULTS: Ten studies including 17 285 individuals were analysed. Based on patient-level data, the pooled prevalence of condensing osteitis was 3.9% (95% CI: 2.8%-4.9%). Substantial heterogeneity was observed (I2 = 96%). Subgroup analyses based on age and diagnostic criteria did not explain the heterogeneity. Sensitivity analysis confirmed the robustness of the findings. No evidence of publication bias was detected (Egger’s test, p = 0.761). The overall certainty of evidence was rated as very low.
CONCLUSIONS: Condensing osteitis is a radiographically detectable periapical finding with an estimated prevalence of approximately 4%. However, variability in diagnostic criteria and study methodologies limits the reliability of prevalence estimates. Standardised diagnostic definitions and improved methodological consistency are needed in future research.
REGISTRATION: International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO): CRD420261354628.
PMID:42508034 | DOI:10.1111/iej.70242
