Perspectives on Endodontic Therapy and Intrumentation

Endodontic treatment has as its overall goal the long-term retention and restoration of the endodontically treated tooth, including an absence of periapical infection. For this to be achieved, a number of steps and a careful technique are required during instrumentation and irrigation for cleansing and shaping of the canals, and during root canal obturation. Over time, root canal instrumentation options increased to include NiTi reamers and files, Gates Glidden drills, and other designs for manual and rotary use. Instrumentation options and techniques for obturation also increased to include traditional lateral and vertical cold condensation techniques, as well as techniques utilizing carriers of different designs and new materials. Regardless of which combination of instrumentation and techniques is used, successful endodontic therapy relies on a number of sequential steps that must be thoroughly carried out. Learning Objectives: The overall goal of this course is to provide the reader with an overview of root canal instrumentation and obturation techniques. On completion of this course, the reader will be able to do the following: 1. List and describe the overall goal and objectives of endodontic treatment. 2. Define and describe endodontic instrumentation options. 3. Discuss the requirements for a root canal irrigant. 4. List and describe currently available root canal obturation techniques. Author Profiles John C. Comisi, DDS, MAGD Dr. Comisi has been in private practice in Ithaca, NY since 1983. He is a graduate of Northwestern University Dental School and received his Bachelor of Science in Biology at Fordham University. He is a member of the American Dental Association and its tripartite organizations, the Academy of General Dentistry, the American Equilibration Society, the International and American Association of Dental Research, a Research Associate at New York University Dental School. Dr. Comisi is a Master of the Academy of General Dentistry, and holds Fellowships in the Academy of Dentistry International, the American College of Dentistry, the Pierre Fauchard Academy and the International College of Dentistry. Author Disclosure The author(s) of this course has/have no commercial ties with the sponsors or the providers of the unrestricted educational grant for this course. This course has been made possible through an unrestricted educational grant. Supplement to PennWell Publications This course was written for dentists, dental hygienists and assistants, from novice to skilled. Educational Methods: This course is a self-instructional journal and web activity. Provider Disclosure: PennWell does not have a leadership position or a commercial interest in any products or services discussed or shared in this educational activity nor with the commercial supporter. No manufacturer or third party has had any input into the development of course content. Requirements for Successful Completion: To obtain 2 CE credits for this educational activity you must pay the required fee, review the material, complete the course evaluation and obtain a score of at least 70%. CE Planner Disclosure: Michelle Fox, CE Coordinator does not have a leadership or commercial interest with Essential Dental Systems, the commercial supporter, or with products or services discussed in this educational activity. Educational Disclaimer: Completing a single continuing education course does not provide enough information to result in the participant being an expert in the field related to the course topic. It is a combination of many educational courses and clinical experience that allows the participant to develop skills and expertise. Registration: The cost of this CE course is $49.00 for 2 CE credits. Cancellation/Refund Policy: Any participant who is not 100% satisfied with this course can request a full refund by contacting PennWell in writing. Go Green, Go Online to take your course PennWell designates this activity for 2 Continuing Educational Credits Publication date: Sept. 2011 Expiration date: Aug. 2014