[Post-endodontic restoration: a direct or indirect restoration?]

Area of Science:

• Restorative Dentistry
• Endodontics
• Biomaterials

Context:

• Endodontically treated teeth require careful restoration to withstand masticatory forces.
• Preservation of pericervical dentin is crucial for tooth resistance, especially to lateral forces.
• Adhesive restorations are indicated when pericervical dentin is minimal.

Purpose:

• To review the importance of pericervical dentin preservation in endodontically treated teeth.
• To discuss the indications for adhesive restorations (direct vs. indirect).
• To highlight strategies for managing lateral forces on restored endodontic teeth.

Summary:

• Tooth survival rates for endodontically treated teeth with adhesive direct and indirect restorations range from 90.5% to 95.0% after 5 years.
• The choice between direct and indirect restorations depends on predictable anatomical restoration and gloss retention.
• Controlling lateral forces through cuspal slope reduction or cusp coverage is vital for restored tooth longevity.

Impact:

• Provides guidance for dentists on optimal restoration techniques for endodontically treated teeth.
• Emphasizes the role of adhesive dentistry in improving outcomes for compromised teeth.
• Contributes to the understanding of biomechanical principles in restoring endodontic tooth structure.