Restoration of Endodontically Treated Tooth- Concepts and Techniques

The extraction of grossly decayed teeth with least remaining tooth structure has now become the history. With advances in the field of dentistry, teeth formerly considered for extraction are now being saved. However, it is clear that significant reconstruction is often required, and evident that a wide variety of ways exist to achieve this. The longevity of endodontically involved teeth has been greatly enhanced by continuing developments made in endodontic therapy and restorative procedures. It has been reported that a large number of endodontically treated teeth (ETT) are restored to their original function with the use of intraradicular devices. These devices vary from a conventional custom cast post and core to one-visit techniques, using commercially available prefabricated post systems. Despite the vast literature that had been published with regards to the restoration of ETT, the organization and subsequent formulation of such information into a proper treatment protocol remains cumbersome for many clinicians. This article aims to provide a review of the aforementioned literature and then to highlight some of the significant guidelines for the restoration of ETT. Annals of Dental Research (2011) 1(1), 33-43