(PO99) Outcome of Endodontically Treated Teeth Diagnosed with

Abstract:
The objective of this ongoing research project is to determine the outcome of teeth diagnosed with cracked tooth syndrome requiring initial non-surgical root canal therapy. Additionally, associated variables affecting the outcome are analyzed. This is an in vivo cohort study combining retrospective and prospective data with a target sample size of 250 subjects. All subjects are 18 years or older with the ability to provide consent. Subjects are diagnosed with a cracked tooth and pulpal status requiring initial non-surgical root canal therapy. All cracks are confirmed via direct visualization, and optional methylene blue dye and/or transillumination. After treatment, subjects are referred for full coverage restoration and are recalled annually for up to five years for a full clinical and radiographic examination. Clinical data includes tenderness to percussion and palpation, and the presence of definitive restoration, caries, or post placement. Radiographic data includes periapical images that are masked and evaluated by three calibrated board-certified endodontists for periapical status via PAI scoring. Teeth are then assigned an outcome category of survived (tooth is present), functional (present and asymptomatic), or healed (present, asymptomatic, and PAI score of 1-2). The conclusions of this ongoing research, as of 2023, show that the 1-year survival, functionality, and healed rates are 95%, 79%, and 65%, respectively. The only significant covariate factor affecting the outcome negatively is the presence of a post. The overall trend observed after 1 year is toward increased functionality and healing, as most teeth that fail do so within the first few years.