United States Endodontists' Preferences and Perceptions of Single-Visit versus Multiple-Visit Root Canal Treatment: A...

The optimal number of visits for root canal treatment remains debated. This study examined United States endodontists' single-visit versus multiple-visit preferences and identified demographic, regional, and technological correlates.

A cross-sectional, anonymous, 30-item online survey was administered from April to June 2024 to practicing United States endodontists. Associations between demographic variables and responses were assessed using chi-square tests. Binary logistic regression evaluated independent predictors of single-visit treatment across eight clinical scenarios.

Of 511 submissions, 462 met eligibility criteria (response rate 14.5%). Routine single-visit completion was reported for necrotic teeth by 74.9% and for irreversible pulpitis by 92.4%. Most respondents perceived no difference between protocols in postoperative complications (65.6%) or success rate (81.0%). Single-visit completion was least common when canals could not be dried (92.6% multiple-visit) and with diffuse swelling (79.9% multiple-visit). Single-visit completion at lesion sizes of ≥5 mm was reported by 60.4% and declined to 37.9% at ≥15 mm. Male sex was the most consistent independent predictor of single-visit preference (7/8 scenarios; odds ratios 2.01-2.74). GentleWave use independently predicted single-visit completion for infection-related scenarios. Preferences varied significantly by age, practice region, and technology use.

Single-visit treatment is widely practiced among United States endodontists, with most perceiving comparable outcomes. Visit number remains case-dependent, particularly when canal dryness is unachievable or acute infection is present. Preferences varied by sex, age, region, and technology adoption.