Evaluation of Pulpal and Salivary Neuropeptides in Dental Pain

Inclusion Criteria: * Adults aged 18-65 years * ASA physical status I or II * Presence of permanent teeth requiring endodontic treatment * Ability to understand the study procedures and provide written informed consent * No use of analgesic medications within 24 hours prior to clinical assessment * No food or drink intake within 2 hours prior to saliva sampling Exclusion Criteria: * Periodontal disease (probing depth \>4 mm or bleeding on probing \>20%) * Systemic inflammatory, autoimmune, neuropathic, or chronic pain disorders * Acute infection, fever, or antibiotic use within the last 7 days * Pregnancy or lactation * Regular use of psychiatric medications (e.g., antidepressants, anxiolytics, antipsychotics, antiepileptics) * Tobacco use or alcohol consumption within the last 24 hours * Previous endodontic treatment or history of dental trauma in the study tooth * Systemic diseases that may affect neuropeptide levels (e.g., diabetes mellitus, thyroid disorders, renal or hepatic disease) * Use of medications affecting salivary flow