Restoring teeth that are endodontically treated through existing crowns. Part II: Survey of restorative materials commonly used.
OBJECTIVE
A survey was undertaken to categorize the materials used for the restoration of endodontic access openings through complete-coverage crowns after completion of nonsurgical root canal treatment.


METHODS
The survey package consisted of a cover letter stating instructions, rationale, and purpose for the questionnaire, a questionnaire of 8 short-answer questions, and a stamped, self-addressed envelope. A randomized sample of active dentists (300 general practitioners, 300 prosthodontists, and 300 endodontists), was selected. Collected data were analyzed with the chi-square analysis.


RESULTS
Most general practitioners (93%), endodontists (61%), and prosthodontists (75%) reported that they frequently or always permanently restore teeth after nonsurgical root canal treatment. Empress was the all-ceramic system used most commonly by prosthodontists (42%) and general practitioners (38%). A statistically significant difference in restorative material preference was found (P < 0.0001), depending on the type of crown used.


CONCLUSIONS
Amalgam alone and in combination with bonding agents are materials of choice for restoration of access openings through all-metal complete crowns, while resin composite is the choice for all types of complete crowns involving porcelain. Endodontists preferred "other" materials.
Trautmann
G
G
Department of Restorative Sciences, Baylor College of Dentistry, Texas A&M University System, Health Science Center, Dallas, Texas, USA.
Gutmann
J L
JL
Nunn
M E
ME
Witherspoon
D E
DE
Shulman
J D
JD
D000538:Aluminum Silicates; D001291:Attitude of Health Personnel; D016009:Chi-Square Distribution; D003188:Composite Resins; D003442:Crowns; D003722:Dental Alloys; D003723:Dental Amalgam; D001840:Dental Bonding; D003764:Dental Materials; D003776:Dental Porcelain; D003793:Dental Restoration, Permanent / Q000379:methods*; D004708:Endodontics; D005792:General Practice, Dental; D005899:Glass Ionomer Cements; D006801:Humans; D011476:Prosthodontics; D012390:Root Canal Therapy / Q000379:methods*
D000538:Aluminum Silicates; D003188:Composite Resins; D003722:Dental Alloys; D003764:Dental Materials; D005899:Glass Ionomer Cements; C075815:IPS-Empress ceramic; D003776:Dental Porcelain; D003723:Dental Amalgam