[Need for dentists with post-graduate training in endodontology according to members of the Swiss Dental Association].

This questionary-based study was financed by the Swiss Society for Endodontology (SSE). At the time of this survey (2022) there were merely 20 board-certified endodontists in Switzerland, and 239 other members of the SSE, i.e. general practitioners with some form of post-graduate endodontic training or a keen interest in the field. The aim of this investigation was to evaluate the need for a higher number of trained endodontists as viewed by the general population of dentists in Switzerland. An electronic questionary in either German, French, or Italian was sent to all 4072 active members of the Swiss Dental Association (SSO). The questionnaire focused on the background of the surveyed dentists, their willingness to refer endodontic cases to a specialist or colleague with a focus on endodontics, their propensity to do so, and their perceived need for endodontists in their region. The response rate was 21%, and was similar between the different regions and cantons. Seventy-nine (9%) of the dentists participating in the survey were members of the SSE, while 16 (2%) were board-certified. Merely 7% of the participants received endodontic referrals themselves, while 81% referred cases in some instances. However, only 13% of participants referred endodontic cases always or regularly. The main reason for not referring was the belief by the surveyed dentists that they could perform the endodontic treatments themselves. Long distance to the next endodontic specialist or expert was the second most frequently given reason not to refer cases. A total of 58% of the participants believed that there were enough endodontists in Switzerland to cover the encountered clinical problems.

Risk Factors and Prevalence of Occupational Musculoskeletal Pain among Endodontists in the United States.

INTRODUCTION: A musculoskeletal disorder (MSD) of pain, weakness, numbness, or paresthesia is a common issue for dental health care providers. The aims of this study were to (1) identify the prevalence of MSDs among endodontists in the United States, (2) to identify risk factors of MSDs among United States endodontists, and (3) to compare these findings with other published findings for dental providers. METHODS: A 24-question survey regarding the demographics, potential risk factors, and prevalence of MSDs was formulated and distributed to 5394 members of the American Association of Endodontists. Data were then analyzed using descriptive statistics and chi-square analysis to find significance at α = 0.05. RESULTS: Six hundred twenty participants responded to the survey for an overall response rate of 12%. Of the submitted surveys, 527 of them confirmed to be endodontists practicing in the United States, and all results were derived from those 527 surveys. Seventy-four percent of respondents reported having experienced MSDs in the last 12 months, and 88% reported having experienced at least 1 MSD thus far during their career. Eighty-five percent of female participants reported an MSD within the past 12 months compared with 70% of males. CONCLUSIONS: MSDs have a high prevalence among endodontists in the United States. The neck and lower back were the areas of highest MSD prevalence. Female sex and the frequent adoption of awkward postures were factors associated with significantly higher rates of reported MSDs in the last 12 months.

A Survey on Cone-beam Computed Tomography Usage Among Endodontists in the United States.

INTRODUCTION: The aim of the study was to investigate the accessibility and frequency of cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) usage and to assess the economic and logistical factors involved with its usage among active American Association of Endodontists (AAE) members, utilizing a web-based survey. METHODS: A survey of 19 questions was sent to 3,071 AAE members addressing participant access to, along with financial and logistical aspects of CBCT imaging. Descriptive analysis was performed and Fisher exact test utilized to test associations between groups (P < .05). RESULTS: The overall response rate was 14.7% (n = 544). Ninety-five percent of respondents (n = 486) had an in-office CBCT unit, with those graduating after the year 2000 statistically more likely to have one (P < .05). Utilization of CBCT imaging for every case was reported by 40% of providers. Eighty-nine percent reported taking the scan at the consultation visit and 20% included this charge with the consultation fee. For those who charged for the scan separately, 85% charged more than $100. Providers who paid off their unit did so within 1-2 years (41%), 3-4 years (36%), 4-5 years (12%), and 5+ years (11%). Limited field of view was utilized by 95% of respondents. Fifty-eight percent reported interpreting the scans themselves, 38% send only if pathology is expected, and 3% always send their scans to a radiologist. CONCLUSIONS: In conclusion, accessibility and utilization of CBCT imaging among United States endodontists has increased and acquisition of this equipment has not made a long lasting financial burden on providers.

A comparison of endodontic registrar training experience with treatments provided by private practice endodontists.

The primary aim was to compare cases seen by public endodontic clinicians (endodontists and endodontic registrars) to that of private endodontists. This was done by comparing item numbers charged over a 3-year period from 1 January 2016 to 1 January 2019 from both sectors. The secondary aim was to compare item numbers charged by endodontic registrars during their training as recorded by their submitted logbooks to that of private endodontists. In both comparisons, private endodontists recorded higher numbers of many item numbers including consultations, routine root canal treatment, removal of posts and broken instruments. Endodontic registrar logbooks also recorded fewer numbers compared to private endodontists, however, the frequency of more invasive procedures such as surgery and hemisection were similar.

A comparison of endodontic referrals and treatment in the public and private sectors in Western Australia.

The aim was to compare referral patterns and treatment provided by specialist Endodontists and Endodontic Registrars. A retrospective review was conducted of the clinical records of the first 25 patients seen by seven private endodontic clinicians and the equivalent number (175) of patients seen by five public sector endodontic clinicians from 1 January 2017. The average age and range of medical co-morbidities of patients in the public sector were statistically greater. Referred patients and referrers mainly worked in metropolitan Perth. The most frequent reasons for referral in both public and private sectors were to assess and manage non-painful endodontic pathosis, to manage pain, and to manage calcified canals. There was a wide range of cases referred to both sectors but with similar patterns suggesting that the training of specialists adequately prepares them for private practice. The results also indicate that Endodontists must be proficient in all aspects of the speciality.

Nationwide Trends of Modern Endodontic Practices Related to Working Length, Instrumentation, Magnification, and Obturation: A Comparative Cross-Sectional Survey Comparing Endodontic and Non-Endodontic Specialties Practicing Root Canal Treatment in India.

Aim: The present study was designed to assess trends in contemporary endodontic practice regarding the techniques and materials used in endodontic therapy among dental practitioners from various regions of India. Methods: A cross-sectional questionnaire-based study was conducted amongst dentists who were pursuing postgraduates in endodontics (PG Endo) and other branches (PG-OB), specialists from other branches (MDS-OB) and specialists in endodontics (MDS-Endo) in various dental colleges representing East, West, North, South, and Central zones through an e-survey using Google forms. State-wise postgraduate dental college lists were obtained from the Dental Council of India (DCI) website. Using a multistage cluster random sampling method and considering the unanticipated response rate, emails were sent to 2100. A 29-item close-ended questionnaire, framed according to different aspects of endodontic treatment, was used to record the responses. Results: When the distribution of the groups of dentists was compared, the central zone had the highest number of PG-OB (44.2%) and the lowest number of MDS-Endo (8.4%). The electronic apex locator (EAL) method of working length determination has been reported less among MDS-Endo than MDS-OB. The difference between the usage of various methods for working length determination was significant among the different groups in all the zones. (p < 0.0001) Most MDS-Endo preferred the rotary method of instrumentation over the combination method for different zones. The majority of dental practitioners preferred a combination method of instrumentation. Conclusion: Zone-wise comparisons among dentists showed the majority of general dental practitioners preferred the combination method (radiographs and electronic apex locator) for working length determination. Most MDS-Endo preferred the rotary method of instrumentation over the combination method for different zones. All dental practitioners did not so commonly use magnification in all the zones. The single cone technique was the most opted by dental practitioners of all the zones.

Cone-beam computed tomography-Predictors and characteristics of usage in Australia and New Zealand, a multifactorial analysis.

Cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) is an increasingly used imaging modality. This study aimed to identify the factors that predict its usage amongst endodontists in Australia and New Zealand and describe usage characteristics. Data were collected via an online questionnaire, with analysis including descriptive statistics, cross-tabulation and multifactorial modelling. Ninety-four endodontists completed the questionnaire who were using CBCT for 7 years (median), over half had a CBCT unit in practice, with most prescribing up to 10 scans/month and 55 using a small field of view. Sixty-eight participated in >5 h of CBCT education/year and a third received a specialist-prepared report. The number of prescriptions/month was significantly associated with on-site CBCT units (Exp B: 8.53; 95% CI: 1.46-49.86, p < 0.05) and the number of years of CBCT usage by participants (Exp B: 1.46; 95% CI: 1.17-1.84, p = 0.001). CBCT imaging in endodontics is a useful diagnostic aid to decision making and treatment planning, with widespread acceptance and usage.

Análise da prática endodôntica realizada em clínicas odontológicas em uma cidade do Sul do Brasil / Analysis of endodontic practices in dental clinics in a Southern Brazilian city

Introdução: O desenvolvimento de novas técnicas, tecnologias e materiais influenciam a prática clínica da endodontia e impactam consideravelmente a forma como o tratamento do canal radicular é realizado. Embora existam informações sobre as várias formas de tratamentos praticados por dentistas em outras cidades e/ou países, muito pouco se sabe sobre as endodontias realizadas em clínicas odontológicas na cidade de Porto Alegre/RS. Objetivo: Analisar a prática endodôntica realizada por dentistas nas clínicas odontológicas na cidade de Porto Alegre/RS, visando explorar as técnicas, materiais e equipamentos empregados durante o tratamento. Material e método: Foi aplicado um questionário online, por meio da Plataforma Google Forms, com vinte e seis questões abertas e fechadas aos dentistas que realizam tratamentos endodônticos em clínicas odontológicas. O questionário foi estruturado a fim de analisar os materiais, técnicas e equipamentos que estão presentes nos tratamentos endodônticos realizados pelos dentistas nas clínicas odontológicas aqui avaliadas. Os dados coletados nos questionários foram transferidos para uma planilha Excel®. A análise dos dados foi feita de duas formas: frequência absoluta e relativa para as questões fechadas, e descritiva para as questões abertas. Resultado: 15,57% das clínicas odontológicas registradas no CRO/RS participaram da presente pesquisa. Foi possível verificar que a maioria dos materiais e técnicas aplicadas no tratamento endodôntico são os mesmos recomendados pela literatura científica. Conclusão: Os protocolos clínicos em endodontia seguidos pelos participantes do presente estudo apresentam embasamento clínico e científico na literatura.

Introduction: The evolution of new techniques, technologies, and materials significantly influences the clinical practice of endodontics, thus profoundly impacting the approach to root canal treatments. While information about various treatment methods practiced by dentists in other cities or countries is available, there is a notable gap in our understanding of endodontic practices in the Porto Alegre city. Objective: The objective of this study is to analyze the endodontic practices employed by dentists in dental clinics located in Porto Alegre city. We aimed to explore the techniques, materials, and equipment routinely utilized during endodontic treatments. Material and method: An online questionnaire using the Google Forms platform was administered, consisting of twenty-six open and closed questions to dentists performing endodontic treatments in dental clinics. The questionnaire was structured to assess the materials, techniques, and equipment employed during endodontic procedures. Data collected from the questionnaires were recorded in an Excel® spreadsheet. Data analysis encompassed both absolute and relative frequency for closed questions and also a descriptive approach for open-ended questions. Results: Participation was obtained from 15.57% of dental clinics registered with CRO/RS. The findings indicated that the majority of materials and techniques applied in endodontic treatment could be aligned with recommendations found in the scientific literature. Conclusion: The clinical protocols observed by the participants in endodontic practice demonstrated a solid foundation in both clinical and scientific literature.

Endodontic file separation and its management among dentists in Punjab, Pakistan: a cross-sectional study

The study aimed to find the incidence and awareness of endodontic instrument separation and its management among dental house officers, postgraduate trainees, demonstrators, consultants, and general dentists. Methods: This online questionnaire-based cross-sectional study was conducted with the approval of the IRB in private and public dental hospitals and dental clinics in Punjab. The authors developed the survey tool, which comprises 24 closed-ended items regarding demographics, the incidence of file separation, and awareness about its management. The data were analyzed using IBM SPSS version 24. The Chi-Square Test was used to compare percentages of categorical variables. Results: Postgraduate trainees experienced the most instrument separations (43.6%), made the most retrieval attempts (49.2%), and experienced the most secondary errors during retrieval (52.1%) (p<0.001). Around four out of ten respondents always informed the patients (39.6%) and department (41.6%) about errors. Manual files (69.8%), stainless steel files (75.8%), and short files (60.4%) were more frequently separated, and the most frequent cause was older fatigue files (57.7%). Manual files were more frequently broken in public dental institutes (p=0.003). Two-thirds of the file separations (72.5%) occurred during cleaning and shaping in the apical third of molars (65.1%), especially in mesiolingual canal (56.4%). Bypass attempt was the most common in symptomatic teeth (47.7%). Conclusions: Preventive approaches such as limiting file reuse and constructing a glide path can reduce the occurrence of file separation. Operators should be familiar with the number of uses of the instrument before fatigue and should be trained through workshops and refresher courses

The Assessment of Quality of the Root Canal Filling and the Number of Visits Needed for Completing Primary Root Canal Treatment by Operators with Different Experience.

The main goal of root canal treatment (RCT) is to eradicate or essentially diminish the microbial population within the root canal system and to prevent reinfection by a proper chemo-mechanical preparation and hermetic final obturation of the root canal space. The aim of this study was to assess the quality of the root canal filling and the number of visits needed for completing RCT by operators with different experience, including dentistry students (4th and 5th year), general dental practitioners (GDPs), and endodontists. Data from medical records of 798 patients were analyzed, obtaining 900 teeth and 1773 obturated canals according to the inclusion and exclusion criteria. A similar number of teeth was assessed in each group in terms of density and length of root canal filling and number of visits. The larger number of visits and the lower quality of treatment was observed for 4th year students than for other groups (p < 0.05); in contrast, the endodontists needed the lowest number of visits to complete RCT and more often overfilled teeth than other operator groups (p < 0.05). Interestingly, no statistical difference in quality of root canal filling was noted between 5th year students, GPDs and endodontists. The treatment of lower teeth demanded statistically more visits than that of upper teeth (p < 0.05). The results of the study emphasize that most of the root canal filling performed by operators was considered adequate, regardless of tooth type, files used and number of visits.

To Drill or not to Drill: A Turnabout in Endodontic Practices during Corona Virus Disease -2019- A South India Based Study.

Introduction: The emergence of coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) pandemic poses an immense global health challenge. It also had a profound impact on dentistry with all elective treatment grinding to half initially and a slow phased return to normal services. The aim of the article is to provide an insight into the effect of COVID-19 on endodontic treatment. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study among endodontists of various southern states of India was conducted from January 1, 2021 to March 31, 2021, using an online questionnaire. A total of 300 dentists who perform endodontic treatment in daily clinical practice were chosen for the survey. The information was coded, entered, and analyzed utilizing SPSS 20.0 version. Results: A total of 263 questionnaires were answered by the selected group. About 92.01% of endodontists have made changes in infection control including modification in their personal protective equipment and duration of the interval between their appointments. A whopping 74.14% of endodontists faced the economic loss of varying degrees due to the pandemic. In general tremendous changes have been occurred in their daily practice following the pandemic. Conclusion: The pandemic's current and enduring consequences on every part of our lives have been a cause of pain and frustration, but it has also highlighted the human spirit's resilience. Ideally, endodontists must be able to select the best arrangements for safely performing their procedures.

Management of cracked teeth: Perspectives of general dental practitioners and specialists.

OBJECTIVES: The main aim of this study was to compare how general dental practitioners (GDPs), endodontists and prosthodontists diagnose, prognosticate, and treat cracked teeth. The secondary aim was to highlight factors influencing GDPs' referral practices of cracked teeth to specialists. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Questionnaires were used to collect information from GDPs, prosthodontists, and endodontists, on their use of diagnostic methods to identify cracked teeth, prognostication, and their management and referral practices for cracked teeth. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize the quantitative data. Pearson's Chi-Square test or Fisher's Exact test was applied to categorical variables while Kruskal-Wallis or Spearman's correlation coefficient was applied to continuous variables (p <0.05). Content analysis was performed for qualitative data. RESULTS: 207 dentists responded, resulting in a response rate of 83.5%. Endodontists used more diagnostic tools as compared to prosthodontists and GDPs. For pulpally involved cracked teeth, endodontists were more likely to recommend root canal treatment (RCT) and cuspal coverage compared to extraction, followed by prosthodontists then GDPs. Main reasons for referral of cracked teeth to specialists include uncertainty in diagnosis, difficulty in crack visualization after endodontic access, and cracked teeth indicated for RCT. CONCLUSION: GDPs, prosthodontists, and endodontists differ in terms of their diagnosis, prognostication, and treatment of cracked teeth. GDPs refer cracked teeth to specialists due to challenges faced in diagnosis and treatment. Future research and education are required to provide evidence-based guidelines in the management of cracked teeth so that patients with cracked teeth can receive standardized care.

The scope of practice of the modern Endodontist in Western Australia.

There are limited data regarding the scope of practice of Endodontists in Australia. The aim of this study was to investigate the scope of practice of Endodontists and Endodontic Registrars in Western Australia. The study comprised a three-part survey relating to demographics, clinical factors and materials and equipment. The response rate was 70.6%. Compared to the public sector, clinicians in the private sector treated on average twice as many patients per day, twice as many trauma cases per year and, as a proportion of all cases, four and a half times as many apical surgical procedures. These aspects were all statistically significantly different. Other aspects were similar to previous studies within Australia and from other countries.

Niveles de estrés de endodoncistas de la India durante la pandemia COVID-19 / Stress Levels of Indian Endodontists during COVID-19 Pandemic

RESUMEN Introducción: La COVID-19 se propaga por vías respiratorias y aerosoles. La pandemia originada por esta enfermedad causa pánico, miedo y estrés en todos los estratos de la sociedad. Al igual que todas las demás profesiones médicas, los dentistas, particularmente los endodoncistas, que están muy expuestos a los aerosoles, pueden mostrar estrés. Objetivo: Encuestar a los endodoncistas indios para comprender mejor sus niveles de estrés psicológico durante el confinamiento de la India durante la pandemia de la COVID-19. Métodos: Del 8 de abril al 16 de abril de 2020 se realizó una encuesta cerrada en las redes sociales de endodoncia. Se utilizó la técnica de muestreo de bola de nieve. Asimismo, se recolectaron datos demográficos básicos, entorno de práctica y otras informaciones relevantes. El estrés psicológico y la angustia percibida se calcularon a través del índice de angustia peritraumática COVID-19 y la escala de estrés percibido. El análisis de regresión multinomial se realizó para estimar la tasa de riesgo relativo y p ≤ 0,05 se consideró significativo. Resultados: Este estudio tuvo 586 endodoncistas indios que completaron esta encuesta. De estos, 311 (53,07 por ciento) eran hombres, 325 (55 por ciento) en el grupo de edad de 25-35 años, 64 por ciento en áreas urbanas, 13,14 por ciento en prácticas individuales y un cuarto de ellos eran residentes. Las mujeres endodoncistas tenían un alto estrés percibido (RRR = 2,46, p = 0,01) en comparación con los hombres, medido por PSS. Los endodoncistas más jóvenes < 25 años (RRR = 9,75; p = 0,002) y 25-35 años (RRR = 4.60; p = 0,004) en comparación con el grupo de edad > 45 años tenían más angustia. Los consultores exclusivos tuvieron RRR = 2,90, p = 0,02, para la angustia leve a moderada en comparación con la normal. Se consideran los factores que impulsan este fenómeno. Conclusiones: Durante el cierre debido a la COVID-19, los endodoncistas indios 1-en-2 tuvieron angustia, según lo medido por CPDI y 4 de cada 5 percibieron estrés, según lo indicado por PSS. Nuestro modelo identificó ciertos factores que impulsan el (des)estrés, lo que ayudaría a los formuladores de políticas a iniciar una respuesta adecuada(AU)

ABSTRACT Background: The novel 2019 COVID-19 spreads by respiratory and aerosols. COVID-19 driven pandemic causes panic, fear and stress among all strata of society. Like all other medical professions, dentists, particularly endodontists, who are highly exposed to aerosols would be exposed to stress. Objective: To survey the Indian endodontists to better understand their levels of psychological stress during the Indian lockdown COVID-19 Pandemic. Methods: From 8th April to 16th April 2020, we conducted an online survey in closed endodontic social media using snowball sampling technique, collecting basic demographic data, practice setting and relevant data. Psychological stress and perceived distress were collected through COVID-19 Peri-traumatic Distress Index and Perceived stress scale. Multinomial regression analysis was performed to estimate relative risk rate and p ≤ 0.05 was considered significant. Results: This study had 586 Indian endodontists completing this survey across India. Of these, 311(53.07 percent) were males, 325(55 percent) in the age group of 25-35 years, 64 percent in urban areas, 13.14 percent in solo-practice and a fourth of them were residents. Female endodontists had high perceived stress (RRR = 2.46, p = 0.01) as compared to males, as measured by PSS. Younger endodontists < 25 years (RRR = 9.75; p = 0.002) and 25-35years (RRR = 4.60; p = 0.004) as compared with > 45 years age-group had more distress. Exclusive consultants had RRR = 2.90, p = 0.02, for mild-to-moderate distress as compared to normal. Factors driving this phenomenon are considered. Conclusions: During the lock down due to COVID-19, 1-in-2 Indian endodontists had distress, as measured by CPDI and 4-in-5 of them had perceived stress, as indicated by PSS. Our model identified certain factors driving the (dis)stress, which would help policy framers to initiate appropriate response(AU)

Dentists' clinical decision-making about teeth with apical periodontitis using a variable-controlled survey model in South Korea.

BACKGROUND: This study, by using a variable-controlled survey model, sought to compare clinical decisions made by dentists with different clinical backgrounds in South Korea regarding teeth with apical periodontitis and to identify factors that influenced decision-making. METHODS: A questionnaire with 36 questions about identical patient information, clinical signs, and symptoms was filled out by participants. Each question referred to a radiograph that had been manipulated using computer software in order to control tooth-related factors. Participants were instructed to record their demographic information and choose the ideal treatment option related to each radiograph. Simple and multivariable logistic regression analyses (p < .05) were used to investigate factors related to the decision to extract the tooth. We divided factors into dentist-related factors (gender, years of experience, and professional registration) and tooth-related factors (tooth position, coronal status, root canal filling status, and size of the periapical radiolucency). Dentists were categorized into three groups, based on professional registration: general dental practitioners (GDPs), endodontists, and other specialists. Simple logistic regression analysis (p < .05) was used to evaluate the tooth-related factors influencing extraction, depending on the dentists' specialty. RESULTS: Participants mostly preferred saving the teeth over extraction. This preference was highest among the endodontists, followed by other specialists and GDPs. Extractions were significantly preferred for molars, teeth with previous root canal fillings, and those with apical lesions greater than 5 mm. CONCLUSIONS: This study suggests that dentists' decision-making regarding teeth with apical periodontitis was associated with their work experience and specialty and influenced by tooth position, root canal filling status, and size of the apical lesion. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: This survey revealed that clinical decision-making related to teeth with apical periodontitis was affected by dentists' specialty and work experience and by tooth-related factors, such as tooth position, root canal filling status, and size of the apical lesion.

Knowledge of general dentists, endodontists and pediatric dentists about the management on dental traumas: a survey in turkey / Conhecimento de dentistas clínicos-gerais, endodontistas e pediatras sobre o manejo de traumas dentários: uma pesquisa na Turquia

Objective: The purpose of this study was to determine endodontists, pedodontists and general dentists' knowledge of management of dental trauma. Material and methods: A web-based survey including 13 questions was prepared using Google forms, and a link to the survey was sent to the general dentists, endodontists and paediatric dentists via social media. The questionnaire asked for information regarding the age, gender, state of education, type of institution and knowledge levels about dental traumas. A total of 258 questionnaires were returned, and the One-Way Anova for practitioners' knowledge and the statistical analysis of the relationship between gender, vocational training and training by using Mann-Whitney U tests for participants. Results: As a result of statistical analysis, although there was no statistical difference between pedodontists and endodontists in their knowledge levels, it was found that both occupational groups had higher knowledge level than general dentists (p = 0,0001). While there was a significant difference between practitioners at university and oral and dental health hospital (p = 0.0001), there was no difference between practitioners in university hospital and private office (p = 0.065). Conclusions:In conclusion, general dentists had knowledge of inadequate dental trauma management and the knowledge level of dentists working at oral and dental hospital was lowe (AU)

Objetivo: O objetivo deste estudo foi determinar o conhecimento de dentistas clínicos gerais endodontistas, odontopediatras sobre o tratamento de traumatismos dentários. Material e métodos: Uma pesquisa na Web, incluindo 13 perguntas, foi preparada utilizando os formulários do Google. Um link para a pesquisa foi enviado aos dentistas clínicos gerais, endodontistas e odontopediatras via mídia social. O questionário solicitou informações sobre idade, sexo, estado da educação, tipo de instituição e níveis de conhecimento sobre traumas dentários. Um total de 258 questionários foram devolvidos e o One-way ANOVA foi utilizado para avaliar o conhecimento dos profissionais e a análise estatística da relação entre gênero, treinamento vocacional e treinamento foi realizada utilizando o teste de Mann-Whitney. Resultados: como resultado da análise estatística, embora não tenha havido diferença estatística entre pediatra e endodontista em seus níveis de conhecimento, verificou-se que ambos os grupos ocupacionais apresentaram maior nível de conhecimento que os dentistas em geral (p = 0,0001). Embora tenha havido uma diferença significativa entre os profissionais da universidade e o hospital de saúde bucal e odontológico (p = 0,0001), não houve diferença entre os profissionais do hospital universitário e consultório particular (p = 0,065). Conclusões: Em conclusão, os dentistas clíncos-gerais tinham conhecimento de tratamento inadequado do traumatismo dentário e o nível de conhecimento dos dentistas que trabalhavam nos hospitais odontológicos era menor. (AU)

Differences in endodontic emergency management by endodontists and general dental practitioners in COVID-19 times

Abstract The aim of this study was to assess the differences, if any, between general dental practitioners (GDPs) and endodontists, in the diagnosis and treatment of endodontic emergencies during the worldwide outbreak of COVID-19. An online questionnaire was randomly sent by social media to clinicians in different countries from 24 April, 2020 to May 4, 2020. The survey consisted of a series of questions about demographic characteristics, endodontic emergency diagnoses, approaches to prevent aerosol formation, drug prescriptions in case of symptomatic irreversible pulpitis, and the ways in which dentists managed endodontic emergencies during the COVID-19 lockdown. A total of 1,058 dentists responded to the questionnaire; 344 (32.6%) of the participants were endodontists. Slightly less than half of the participants (n = 485, 45.8%) worked during the lockdown, but only 303 participants (28.6%) treated endodontic cases/emergencies. The responses showed agreement between endodontists and GDPs regarding the diagnosis of symptomatic irreversible pulpitis (SIP), symptomatic apical periodontitis (SAP), reversible pulpitis, and asymptomatic irreversible pulpitis (AIP). SIP and SAP were considered an emergency, whereas reversible pulpitis and AIP were not considered an emergency (p > 0.05). Non-aerosol-generating procedures and treatment approaches differed between the groups (p < 0.05). One-third of the participants did not use rubber dam (p > 0.05). Ibuprofen and amoxicillin-clavulanic acid were the most frequently prescribed drugs for pain associated with SIP. In conclusion, the most relevant findings in our survey were the differences between endodontists and GDPs in diagnosis, precheck triage, deep caries excavation procedures, and endodontic emergency pain relief strategies.

A survey on skills for cone beam computed tomography interpretation among endodontists for endodontic treatment procedure.

INTRODUCTION: Cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) is used as a diagnostic tool, which aids in deciding the treatment plan in various fields of dentistry. In endodontics, CBCT is a useful tool in diagnosing apical periodontitis, resorptions, perforation, root canal morphology, traumatic injuries, and voids. The objective of this study was to evaluate the knowledge attitude and practice in diagnosing and interpreting the endodontic treatment using CBCT among the endodontists. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A cross-sectional questionnaire survey was conducted among endodontists. Overall, 97 participants were included in the survey and the questionnaire containing 15 closed-ended questions was administered to the participants. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze the data. RESULTS: On analyzing the response to the questionnaire, it was found that out of 97 participants, 24 had professional experience of more than 10 years. About 57% of participants preferred using digital radiographic technique for diagnosis. Majority of them were aware that CBCT is used for identifying location, size, and extent of periapical lesions. About 46% of participants stated that in detecting voids, CBCT was thrice significant compared with periapical radiography. According to 31% of the endodontists, CBCT was not reliable to detect vertical root fracture. It was found that 63% of the endodontists said they have not undergone any training or workshop in CBCT. CONCLUSION: This research study revealed that adequate training and skills are required in interpreting CBCT in endodontic treatment procedure among endodontists.

The scope and pattern of practice in the delivery of endodontic treatment in Malaysia: A survey study

@#The study aimed to compare the scope and pattern of practice between general dental practitioners (GDPs), restorative dentistry specialists and endodontists. Self-administered postal questionnaires were distributed to 22 restorative dentistry specialists, 16 endodontists and a random sample of 566 GDPs. The pre-tested questionnaire inquired about demographic data, endodontic practices and referrals. Fisher’s exact test with Bonferroni adjustment was performed for pairwise comparisons. The overall response rate was 73.8%. The restorative dentistry specialists and the endodontists performed a wider array of endodontic procedures than the GDPs and were more consistent in the use of specific armamentarium (p<0.017). Endodontists were referred to mostly for cases requiring advanced endodontic skills, while restorative dentistry specialists were mainly consulted for second opinions, pain and restorative management. GDPs should be encouraged to further their education on endodontic practice. Overlapping scope of practice and referrals among the specialists, merits scrutiny to optimize resources and manpower

Revascularization-associated Intracanal Calcification: A Case Report with an 8-year Review.

Revascularization-associated intracanal calcification (RAIC) is a common finding in immature teeth managed with regenerative endodontic treatment (RET). The aim of this report was to illustrate a case in which 2 mandibular premolar teeth developed complete canal obliteration and have been reviewed for 8 years. The 3 primary outcome goals as defined by the American Association of Endodontists after RET are resolution of signs and symptoms of pulp necrosis, further root maturation, and achievement of responses to pulp vitality testing. The teeth had been included in an earlier quantitative study in which an increase in root canal width of 72.1% and 39.6% and an increase in root length of 1.7% and 0% were reported for teeth #20 and #29, respectively. Qualitative assessments over the 8-year review period showed no pathosis and a response to electric pulp testing at the final review. A quantitative assessment at the 8-year review showed an increase of 100% for canal width because complete calcification had occurred and no substantive change in root length (-0.17% and 0.68% for teeth #20 and #29, respectively). In this report, complete RAIC occurred in both teeth over time. RAIC has the potential to complicate future endodontic or prosthodontic treatment if necessary. Therefore, it is recommended that the American Association of Endodontists clinical considerations for a regenerative endodontic procedure be updated to include the incidence of RAIC after RET.