Treatment Concepts for Restoration of endodontically Treated Teeth: A Survey among General Practitioners, Prosthodontists, and Endodontists in India

Abstract

ABSTRACT Aim To study the treatment concepts for restoration of endodontically treated teeth (ETT) among general practitioners, prosthodontists, and endodontists in India and to compare practices followed by practitioners in India with that of other countries. Materials and Methods A questionnaire consisting of 16 multiple choice questions was formulated. It was handed out randomly to general practitioners, prosthodontists, and endodontists at respective national conferences by personal handouts. The questionnaire consisted of 16 multiple choice questions that focused on the treatment philosophies of post-endodontic restoration, materials, and techniques used. Results 70.7% general practitioners believe that a post reinforces ETT and reduces fracture probability and they placed posts more frequently as compared to prosthodontists and endodontists. 44.6% endodontists believed that ferrule does not increase the fracture resistance. Cast post and cores were preferred by 83.2% endodontists, whereas prefabricated posts were preferred by 78.4% general practitioners. Prosthodontists used cast posts and cores as well as prefabricated posts with relatively same frequency. 70.3% endodontists, 74.1% general practitioners, and 46.3% prosthodontists preferred tapered posts. 76.2% endodontists seal root filling after post space preparation, whereas 77.7% prosthodontists and 79.3% general practitioners do not seal the root filling. 81% prosthodontists and 74.1% general practitioners reported endodontic failure as the most frequent cause of failure, however, 79.2% endodontists reported loss of retention of posts. Conclusion Within the limitations of the present study, there were differences in knowledge and practices followed in restoration of ETT among the different specialties – prosthodontists, endodontists, and general practitioners studied in India and also when compared to other countries. How to cite this article Kavlekar AA, Aras MA, Chitre V. Treatment Concepts for Restoration of endodontically Treated Teeth: A Survey among General Practitioners, Prosthodontists, and Endodontists in India. J Contemp Dent 2016;6(2):129-136.