Endodontic Outcomes

Question 1

How is an endodontic outcome assessed?

Answer 1

• At least 1 year after treatment and subsequently as required
• Assess further if uncertain for minimum 4 year period or until resolved

Question 2

Name 3 outcomes of endodontic treatment

Answer 2

1. Favourable
2. Uncertain
3. Unfavourable

Question 3

Describe 4 components of favourable outcomes of endodontics

Answer 3

1. Absence of pain and swelling
2. No sinus tract
3. No loss of function
4. Radiological evidence of a normal periodontal ligament space

Question 4

What is an uncertain outcome in endodontics?

Answer 4

Unknown outcomes - Some signs of favourable but not necessarily unfavourable outcomes

Question 5

Name the 4 conditions found to improve the outcome of primary RCT

Answer 5

1. Pre-op absence of PA radiolucency
2. Root filling with no voids
3. Root filling extended to within 2mm of radiographic apex
4. Satisfactory coronal restoration

Question 6

Describe 3 important features of pre-op status of PA tissues in endodontics

Answer 6

1. Absence of PA radiolucency
2. Influence of size of PA radiolucency
3. Absence of sinus tract

Question 7

Describe how the quality of coronal restoration affects endodontic outcomes

Answer 7

• Better to leave cavity walls standing if possible to provide immediate cuspal protection for restoration
• Indirect restoration may be used for molar and pre molars
• Direct restorations only usually used when enough tooth structure still standing to support restoration

Question 8

Describe 2 patient factors which may affect tooth survival up to 4 years following endodontic treatment

Answer 8

1. Diabetes

2. Systemic steroids

Question 9

Describe 4 pre operative factors which may affect tooth survival up to 4 years following endodontic treatment

Answer 9

1. Deep PPD
2. Pain
3. Discharging sinus
4. Iatrogenic perforation

Question 10

Describe 3 peri-operative factors which may affect tooth survival up to 4 years following endodontic treatment

Answer 10

1. Iatrogenic perforation
2. Apical patency
3. Extrusion of root filling

Question 11

Describe 4 post-operative factors which may affect tooth survival up to 4 years following endodontic treatment

Answer 11

1. Cast restorations
2. Cast P+C restorations
3. Mesial and distal proximal contacts
4. Terminal abutment