Evidence-based decision making in dentistry: The endodontic perspective

Contemporary dentistry advocates that every reasonable effort should be made in order to preserve natural teeth. Implementation of principles of evidence-based dentistry in endodontics enables the practitioner to provide the patient with the best available treatment in each clinical scenario. Modern techniques and devices in contemporary endodontic practice allow for prevention and early identification and management of complications such as vertical root fractures, perforations, and root resorption. With a proper case selection, teeth that were traditionally planned for extraction can be successfully treated either nonsurgically or by endodontic surgery with a high success rate. This chapter is aimed to present the endodontic perspective in the clinical decision-making process regarding the management and preservation of natural teeth. Endodontic case selection, treatment planning and long-term prognosis, contemporary endodontic technologies and treatment modalities, and decision-making considerations regarding the diagnosis and management of endodontic complications will be discussed.