Deciphering Pediatric Root Canal Practices in Turkey: A Comparative Study Bridging the Gap between Practice and...

Area of Science:

• Dentistry
• Pediatric Dentistry
• Endodontics

Background:

• Pediatric endodontics addresses root canal treatments in primary teeth, with variable approaches impacting success and comfort.
• Regional practices, dentist preferences, and technology influence treatment variability, necessitating standardization.
• This study examines Turkish pedodontists' practices against current literature.

Purpose of the Study:

• To scrutinize endodontic practices among Turkish pedodontists.
• To compare these practices with contemporary scientific literature.
• To identify potential areas for improving standardization and outcomes in pediatric endodontics.

Main Methods:

• An online survey with 15 questions was administered to 217 Turkish pedodontists.
• The survey gathered data on preferences for canal length measurement, sealers, irrigation, and procedural decisions.
• Chi-square tests analyzed responses, with statistical significance set at p<0.05.

Main Results:

• Most respondents were university-affiliated; rotary files and apex locators were commonly used for canal preparation and length measurement.
• Iodoform paste and sodium hypochlorite were the preferred canal sealers and irrigation solutions, respectively.
• Many practitioners avoided rubber dams and sonic-ultrasonic activators, with a significant number reluctant to perform procedures under general anesthesia.

Conclusions:

• No single method emerged as definitively superior for primary root canal treatments in deciduous teeth.
• The adoption of advanced technologies in pediatric endodontics may lead to improved treatment success rates.
• Enhancing patient comfort during dental procedures remains a key consideration in pediatric endodontic treatment planning.