April JADA finds dentists accept endodontists restoring teeth if discussed first
Dentists’ demographics affect their comfort level
General dentists widely accept trained endodontists performing restorative procedures if they have previously communicated their intention to do so, according to a study published in the April issue of The Journal of the American Dental Association.
The cover story, “A Survey of General Dentists on the Involvement of Endodontists in Restorative Procedures,” looked at 544 responses to a 15-question web survey distributed by the ADA. The survey asked general dentists to rate their comfort with various scenarios. In the control scenario, an endodontist placed restorations on endodontically treated teeth without prior discussion with the general dentist. In the experimental scenario, an endodontist trained in endo-restorative procedures, having previously discussed their intentions, placed the restorations.
Overall, 69% of respondents supported endodontists placing restorations after discussion with referring general dentists, nearly 13% disagreed, and about 18% were undecided. Opponents cited lack of trust and billing preferences as reasons for their opposition. Undecided dentists identified residency training, case portfolios and individualized discussions as factors likely to increase acceptance.
More recent graduates, female practitioners and those practicing at community clinics, in rural and urban areas, and in the South and West were significantly more comfortable with endodontists placing restorations.
“Our data support the notion that comprehensive restorative training for endodontic residents and interdisciplinary communication can enhance collaboration and trust between general dentists and endodontists, leading to better patient care,” the authors said in the study. “Demographic factors, such as years in practice, sex, practice setting, and region, also play a crucial role in shaping the comfort levels of general dentists, highlighting the need for tailored discussions between endodontists and their referring dentists.”
Other articles in the April issue of JADA discuss point-of-care glycemia testing, patients with body dysmorphic disorder, and citizen science in dentistry and community oral health.
Every month, JADA articles are published online at JADA.ADA.org. ADA members can access JADA content with their ADA username and password.
