Contemporary concepts and techniques used for restoration of endodontically treated teeth by dental professionals in north India: A questionnaire-based study

Background: Coronal restoration determines the success of endodontically treated teeth. A variety of techniques and materials are available for restoration of such teeth with varied opinions among practitioners. Objective: To investigate the current belief of the practitioners regarding the restoration of endodontically treated teeth in North India. Methods: This questionnaire-based survey was conducted among 186 general dentists in North India. The questionnaire containing 18 multiple choice questions about technique and treatment methods, type of post, choice of luting cement, core material, coronal extent of gutta percha and placement of protective coronal barrier was distributed by electronic media. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze the data. Results: Most of the dentists 69.4% believe that a post reinforces an endodontically treated teeth and reduces fracture probability. Crown was preferred by 40.9% to restore an endodontically treated teeth. Composite resin was the most preferred material for core build up 66.1%. Glass fiber post was more commonly used post 31.2%. Most dentists keep coronal extent of gutta percha either at the level of the orifice or at the level of 1-2mm below Cemento-enamal Junction. Most of the dentists 33.3% don’t use base under permanent restoration. Conclusion: Practitioners had a sound knowledge of the techniques and materials used for restoration of endodontically treated teeth except in relation to the need to establish a good coronal seal by placing base over a root filling.