[The ideal endodontic posts. A review of the literature]. / De ideale wortelstift. Een overzicht van de literatuur.

Extensive research has been done regarding endodontic posts. In the majority of cases, only a few aspects are investigated. A literature review was performed regarding the various aspects that have to be considered when selecting a particular endodontic post for clinical application. The dentist has to realize that the ideal endodontic post (still) does not exist for all clinical situations. Most important is to achieve both a durable and a predictable result, sparing as much as possible of the root itself. Based on the literature, data presenting the requirements for an 'ideal' endodontic post are formulated.

Radiographic evaluation of cases referred for surgical endodontics.

AIM: The aim of this study is to test the hypothesis that more patients with failed root-canal treatment or other endodontic problems are referred for periradicular surgery rather than nonsurgical re-treatment. METHODOLOGY: Three sets of 100 periapical radiographs representing typical cases referred for surgical treatment were collected in three departments of oral and maxillo-facial surgery situated in different parts of the Netherlands. Of these, a total of 278 radiographs were evaluated to determine whether endodontic surgery was indicated or whether the primary endodontic treatment or endodontic re-treatment was a realistic option. An oral and maxillo-facial surgeon, an endodontist and a general dental practitioner viewed the radiograph independently under standard conditions. RESULTS: Overall, orthograde root-canal (re-)treatment was considered possible in 63% of the cases. The results differed between the three examiners with the oral surgeon reporting that 41% of cases were amenable to conventional treatment, for the general dental practitioner and the endodontists the figures were 67 and 80%, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: Based on these observations, it is concluded that most of the teeth referred for surgical treatment to an oral surgeon could be treated by orthograde nonsurgical root-canal treatment.

[Relapse after endodontic treatment: endodontic retreatment or apex resection?]. / Recidief na endodontische behandeling: herbehandeling of apexresectie?

In many cases, unsuccessful endodontic treatment is followed by apicoectomy. Endodontic retreatment, however, could be an appropriate alternative for apicoectomy more frequently. In this paper indications, specific problems and treatment methods are presented for endodontic retreatment, apicoectomy and intentional replantation.