Predictable endodontic treatment. Adopting new techniques and technology in Endodontics from diagnosis to obturation.

ABSTRACT

The crucial role of microbes and their metabolic byproducts for developing pulp and periodontal tissue disease has been well documented. Therefore the aim of endodontic treatment is bacteria elimination to prevent or heal apical periodontitis preserving as much dental tissue as possible. In order to achieve this objective each stage of endodontic treatment, diagnosis, chemomechanical preparation and obturation should be performed meticulously. Higher predictability of our treatment results in better patient service and increased practice efficiency. Since the early ’90’s two-dimensional digital radiography, NiTi alloys, endodontic motors, apex locators, ultrasonics and warm techniques for goutapercha obturation had already been introduced. The specialty discipline of Endodontics has been progressed through many changes over the last twenty years. Cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) allows 3-D images-processing of tooth and periapical tissues. Due to the advances in the field of metallurgy innovative files have been introduced. Bioeceramic materials have lead to new treatment modalities. Hence, questions arise as to which are the indications for CBCT scan? Should we use stainless steel files, files with martensitic or austenitic properties, rotational or reciprocal movement, warm techniques for guttapercha obturation or bioceramics? The aim of this presentation is to enlighten our understanding of contemporary technologies, current materials and techniques that can be adopted in every day clinical practice and increase the predictability of each step of endodontic treatment.