Endodontics: Part 2 Diagnosis and treatment planning

doi:doi:10.1038/sj.bdj.4811612

British Dental Journal 197, 231 - 238 (2004)
Published online: 11 September 2004 | doi:10.1038/sj.bdj.4811612

Verifiable CPD Paper:
Endodontics: Part 2 Diagnosis and treatment planning

P Carrotte¹

An accurate diagnosis of the patient's condition is essential before an appropriate treatment plan can be formulated for that individual.
A logical approach to clinical examination should be adopted.
A high quality long-cone parallel radiograph is mandatory before commencing root canal treatment, and should be carefully examined to obtain all possible information.
Root canal treatment may not be the most appropriate therapy, and treatment plans should take into account not only the expected prognosis but also the patient's dental condition, expectations and wishes.

Endodontics

The modern concept of root canal treatment
Diagnosis and treatment planning
Treatment of endodontic emergencies
Morphology of the root canal system
Basic instruments and materials for root canal treatment
Rubber dam and access cavities
Preparing the root canal
Filling the root canal system
Calcium hydroxide, root resorption, endo-perio lesions
Endodontic treatment for children
Surgical endodontics
Endodontic problems

As with all dental treatment, a detailed treatment plan can only be drawn up when a correct and accurate diagnosis has been made. It is essential that a full medical, dental and demographic history be obtained, together with a thorough extra-oral and intra-oral examination. This part considers the classification of diseases of the dental pulp, together with various diagnostic aids to help in determining which condition is present, and the appropriate therapy.

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