SP-36 - The Pediatric Endodontic Patient: Understanding How Behavior Management, Diagnostic Criteria and Use of Innovative Techniques and Materials Can Create the Best Outcomes for This Complex Population

Presentation Description/Abstract: The pediatric endodontic patient poses a challenge both in patient management and the status of root development. Often treatment decisions are affected by the ability to manage the behavior of the child. Knowing the various modalities available will be reviewed so that optimum treatment is sought. Dr. Usman has a philosophy of proactive treatment versus "waiting and watching" which will minimize untoward sequelae such as infection and discoloration of the tooth as well as facilitate an optimum and conservative, long-term restorative solution. Starting with a thorough understanding of diagnosis and the role of frequent recall, she will demonstrate the management of various patients who have undergone trauma or have gross caries which threaten the premature loss of the permanent tooth. A review of diagnosis and the various spectrum of pupal therapeutic techniques from apexogenesis to indirect pulp capping, modified apexification, and regenerative treatments. The clinical uses of various materials such as MTA, Endosequence bioceramics, Biodentine calcium silicate cement and collagen containing materials which have been demonstrated to have applications, will be compared. Using her own personal cases Dr. Usman will highlight her process of establishing a treatment plan taking into consideration the psychosocial factors, diagnosis and short term and long term prognoses. Some interdisciplinary time-sensitive treatments will be discussed such as decoronation and autotransplantation which involve other specialists such as orthodontics and oral-maxillofacial surgery and periodontics.