PREFERRED ENDODONTIC MATERIALS AND TECHNIQUES EMPLOYED BY GENERAL DENTISTS AND ENDODONTISTS ? A QUESTIONNAIRE SURVEY

Aim: The aim of this survey was to gather information on the materials and methods employed in root canal treatment by endodontists and general dental practitioners in Chennai. Materials and Methods: The questionnaire was distributed to a total number of 500 dentists. The structured questionnaire comprised of 13 questions with multiple- choice answers with an option for ?other?. Space was provided below the questions to add any additional comments, in case any treatment modification was not adequately covered by the given choices. The questionnaire included demographic information and questions about the materials and techniques that are typically used in endodontic therapy. Results: A total of 486 completed questionnaires were collected, representing a response rate of 84.64%.Only 13.5% of GDPs reported using rubber dam. Over 78.6% of the practitioners reported using formocresol for pulpotomies. More than 50% of the dentists participating in the current research reported using conventional radiography in determination of WL. The step-back method was used by 36.6% of the respondents. In the current survey, over 45% of the participants were using CH as an intracanal medicament. In the current study, the lateral condensation of gutta-percha significantly surpassed the other obturation techniques. Conclusion: It is noted that a group of dentists, irrespective of the time since graduation, relies on techniques and use products and materials which are currently favored by expert opinion. Unfortunately, it was also noted that some of the practitioners are still not using rubber dam as an isolation method. Thus, the standard of care for endodontics can be improved by increasing general dental practitioner interest in pursuing postgraduate education.