O-12 - Lessons Learned in 45 Years of Endodontics

Long-term success of endodontic treatment is highly dependent on a number of non-endodontic factors. Our literature shows that the majority of extracted endodontically treated teeth over the long term are due to structural and/or restorative failures. Some of these factors are out of our control such as patient physiology and compliance, but we should control the ones we can. These include case selection, the quality of the endodontic treatment, and the restorative foundation. Another, often overlooked factor is establishing a good relationship and clear communication with referring dentists. Dr. Marga Ree has been in private practice since 1979 and has limited her practice to endodontics since 1998. She will show cases with an up to 40-year recalls, some from her years as a general dentist. She will show some of her failed cases and discuss what she would do differently today. She will discuss the importance of multidisciplinary care, follow-up, and the role of minimally invasive endodontics.