Comparative Analysis of Current Endodontic Practices: A Survey of Punjab State versus Global Trends

Endodontics, vital for oral health, addresses dental pulp and periapical issues. In Punjab, with over 30 million residents, 40-60% of adults require endodontic care due to widespread dental caries. Urban clinics perform more treatments than rural areas, which face accessibility challenges due to limited infrastructure and specialists. This study examines endodontic practices in Punjab, focusing on modern techniques to enhance dental healthcare.

A cross-sectional study surveyed 385 dentists in Punjab using a questionnaire on diagnosis, instrumentation, post-treatment care, and sterilization. Distributed via IDA WhatsApp groups and emails, 485 responses were collected from 800 questionnaires. Data were organized by endodontists and dental students.

From 800 solicited dentists, 485 responses were analyzed, predominantly from middle-aged (50-55 years) private practitioners (84%). The diagnostic preferences included radiographs and percussion tests. Multivisit treatments were favored by 56% of dentists. Digital radiography (RVG) was preferred by 92%, and a combination of hand and rotary files was used by 92%. Sodium hypochlorite was the primary irrigant (71%), and calcium hydroxide was the most used intracanal medicament (81%). The single cone technique was the most common for obturation (50%), and zinc oxide-based sealers were preferred (41%). Antibiotics were commonly prescribed, with amoxicillin being the first choice (66%). Magnification tools were rarely used, and 96% placed crowns post-root canal treatment.

The survey reveals diverse endodontic practices in Punjab, with a shift toward modern techniques. However, disparities in care quality and access persist between urban and rural areas, highlighting the need for targeted efforts to improve rural services and elevate dental healthcare standards statewide.