Should endodontists place dental implants? A national survey of general dentists.

INTRODUCTION The purpose of this study was to assess whether general dentists support the placement of dental implants by endodontists. METHODS A 29-item written survey was developed and mailed to 1,500 randomly selected practicing general dentists within the United States to assess whether respondents supported implant placement by endodontists and whether they would refer patients to endodontists for implant placement. Univariate, bivariate, and logistic regression analyses were performed. RESULTS Three hundred sixty-six subjects completed surveys. Sixty-six percent of respondents opposed endodontists placing implants, and 73% indicated they would not refer patients to an endodontist for implant placement. The following characteristics were associated with respondents who support implant placement (P < .05): yes, willing to refer to an endodontist for implant placement; believes other specialists would support endodontists placing implants; never or sometimes refers patients for molar root canal treatment; and plans to retire in 5 years. CONCLUSIONS The majority of respondents did not support implant placement by endodontists. As the demand for implant therapy continues to grow, it may be necessary to increase the number of practitioners who place dental implants. However, general dentists' and specialists' attitudes should be further assessed before modifying the scope of endodontic practice to include implant placement.