Despite the fact that degradation and dissolution of gutta-percha (GP) and sealer (SE) jeopardize positive treatment outcomes, these legacy materials are still used in diverse protocols for root filling canals. 1 This paper reviews the historical cognitive dissonance in endodontics; the biochemical seal created by GP and SE diminishes over time with negative sequelae and … Read more
Errors accumulate during procedures. That’s the reason botching the access at the start of an RCT is so much more devastating than say, problems that come from misfitting a gutta percha cone just before finishing the case. Miss a canal and the case is going down regardless of how brilliant the remaining procedure is carried … Read more
IntroductionAs a practicing endodontist and a clinical endodontic educator for more than 30 years, the most frequent question I am asked about technique is, “Is it predictable?” While every dentist wants his or her endodontic treatment to be easier, more efficient, simpler, and profitable, in the end, it is predictability that trumps all considerations. As … Read more
Innovations in the micro-armamentarium, techniques and materials used for endodontic microsurgery are seminal to enhanced predictable outcomes by comparison with historical microsurgical procedures. The superior magnification and illumination of surgical operating microscopes heightens identification of root peripheries, ensures a lesser degree of root reduction and diminishes the size of osteotomies thus retaining greater residual bone. … Read more
Introduction Among the most frequently performed procedures in dentistry are posterior direct composite restorations. Traditionally requiring the incremental placement of composite layers in order to prevent polymerization shrinkage, postoperative sensitivity, and marginal leakage, direct posterior restorations can be difficult and time-consuming treatments. 1-3 Their location in the mouth can oftentimes hinder the precise placement of … Read more
Abstract The successful outcome of endodontic treatment depends on an appreciation of the internal and external tooth morphology. Teeth with unusual root canal anatomy present a unique challenge even to experienced clinicians. This case series describes the endodontic treatment of maxillary premolars with three root canals. The identification and management of this uncommon anatomical variation of the … Read more
Non-surgical endodontic therapy requires access preparations that uncover entrances to the labyrinthine tunnels of the root canal system. The era of bio-minimalism has altered the traditional configuration of endodontic access cavities. These bio-minimalistic trends are also transforming endodontic surgery. 1 The use of surgical operating microscopes (Global Surgical Corporation, St. Louis, MO) facilitates smaller crypt … Read more
The GentleWave® Procedure effectively cleans and disinfects while conserving more precious tooth structure. Simultaneous cleaning of all canals, deep into dentinal tubules, isthmi, lateral canals and other complex anatomy is accomplished through a proprietary technology that leverages multisonic energy, advanced fluid dynamics, and accelerated chemistry for improved patient outcomes. The GentleWave® System’s mechanism of action … Read more
One of the most controversially debated topics of modern dentistry has been whether to retain a tooth with endodontic treatment or to extract it and replace it with an implant. In the 1980s, implant dentistry became the mainstream treatment modality, with the purported promise of a maintenance free, definitive and long term solution for a … Read more