ABSTRACT
This article reviews the diagnostic process, from the first clinically evident stages of the caries process to development of pulpal pathosis. The caries diagnostic process includes 4 interconnected components-staging caries lesion severity, assessing caries lesion activity, and risk assessments at the patient and tooth surface level - which modify treatment decisions for the patient. Pulpal pathosis is diagnosed as reversible pulpitis, irreversible pulpitis (asymptomatic), irreversible pulpitis (symptomatic), and pulp necrosis. Periapical disease is diagnosed as symptomatic apical periodontitis, asymptomatic apical periodontitis, acute apical abscess, and chronic apical abscess. Ultimately, the goal of any diagnosis should be to achieve better treatment decisions and health outcomes for the patient.
Subject(s)
Dental Caries Activity Tests/methods , Dental Caries/pathology , Dental Pulp Diseases/pathology , Dental Restoration, Permanent/standards , Periapical Diseases/pathology , Dental Caries/complications , Dental Caries Activity Tests/standards , Dental Pulp Diseases/complications , Diagnosis, Oral/methods , Humans , Outcome and Process Assessment, Health Care , Periapical Diseases/complicationsABSTRACT
The purpose of this investigation was to survey Diplomates of the American Board of Endodontists to determine their preferences in temporary restorations used during and following endodontic therapy and if cotton pellets are used as spacers. The survey asked which primary temporary material was used in anterior and posterior teeth to close access openings. Also, the endodontists were asked if they preferred a double seal and if they used cotton pellets as spacers. Eighty percent (507 of 603) of the surveys were returned. Cavit was the temporary restoration of choice for both anterior and posterior teeth, 48% and 54%, respectively. The majority of Diplomates, 83%, placed a cotton pellet beneath the temporary restorations.
