[Restoration choices for endodontically treated posterior teeth].

Area of Science:

• Dentistry
• Endodontics
• Restorative Dentistry

Background:

• No universally accepted guidelines exist for restoring endodontically treated teeth.
• Restorative decisions for endodontically treated molars and premolars vary among dental practitioners.
• Vertical root fracture is a primary cause for extraction of these teeth.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify common restorative treatment options for endodontically treated molars and premolars.
• To investigate factors influencing treatment preferences among general dentists and endodontists.
• To understand material choices, cuspal coverage, and root canal post usage.

Main Methods:

• A questionnaire was distributed to general dental practitioners and endodontists.
• The questionnaire assessed treatment preferences based on various clinical parameters.
• Specific questions addressed material selection, cuspal coverage, and post utilization.

Main Results:

• Both groups agreed vertical root fracture is the most common extraction reason.
• General dentists delayed permanent restoration in cases of apical periodontitis compared to endodontists.
• Treatment preferences for molars and premolars were similar, with posts used more for premolars.

Conclusions:

• Treatment preferences for endodontically treated premolars and molars are consistent.
• Wall location significantly influences cuspal coverage decisions for premolars.
• A majority of endodontists (75-94%) and a substantial portion of general dentists (51-53%) favor partial over full crowns for single-walled teeth.