CE Hours: 1.0

Description: Cemental tear is an underrecognized cause of localized periodontal breakdown and persistent periapical findings that can closely mimic vertical root fracture, endo–perio disease, or “failed” endodontic/periodontal therapy. Because the clinical and radiographic picture may appear nonspecific, the condition is often missed until late in the disease course, sometimes becoming evident only after surgical exploration or extraction of a non-healing tooth. This session presents a practical, step-by-step approach to identifying cemental tear in everyday practice, emphasizing pattern recognition, targeted imaging interpretation, and diagnostic decision-making to reduce unnecessary retreatment. Participants will review proposed mechanisms and risk factors, the spectrum of clinical and radiographic manifestations, and an updated framework for categorizing tears to guide treatment selection. Management options, including non-surgical, periodontal, and endodontic-surgical strategies, will be discussed, with attention to case selection, expected healing, and prognostic indicators. Real-world cases will illustrate how early recognition can shift treatment planning and improve outcomes.

Learning Objectives: 

• Explain etiologic mechanisms / causes of cemental tear.
• Synthesize clinical findings and imaging to confirm suspected cemental tear and differentiate it from resorptive defects, periodontal lesions, and root fractures.
  
• Select a management pathway using a structured categorization of tear presentation and communicate realistic prognosis and follow-up expectations to patients.
  

CE Hours: 1.0

Description: The cornerstone of evidence-based decision-making in endodontics relies on the critical analysis of relevant and methodologically rigorous studies. Understanding prognostic outcomes in contemporary endodontics is essential for making informed treatment choices. However, studies on nonsurgical endodontic initial treatment and retreatment demonstrate variability, partly due to outdated practices that do not reflect current standards of care. Modern endodontics has undergone significant evolution with advancements in tools, materials, and technologies. This contemporary armamentarium allows clinicians to manage complex anatomical and pathological challenges with greater precision and predictability, marking a clear departure from conventional methods. These innovations underscore the importance of integrating state-of-the-art equipment and techniques into everyday clinical practice. This webinar aims to provide a comprehensive and up-to-date review of contemporary nonsurgical endodontic initial treatment and retreatment by examining robust research to understand expected outcomes and identify key prognostic factors. The primary objective is to equip clinicians with the knowledge required to make informed decisions, ultimately contributing to improved long-term outcomes in endodontic care.

Learning Objectives: 

• Discuss the significance of critical appraisal skills for a comprehensive understanding of the literature.
  
• Explore the anticipated outcomes of contemporary nonsurgical endodontic treatment and retreatment.
  
• Identify the important prognostic factors affecting the outcomes of contemporary nonsurgical endodontic treatment and retreatment.
  

CE Hours: 1.0

Description: Vertical Root fracture (VRF) is a longitudinally oriented complete or incomplete fracture of the root that originates from its apical end and propagates coronally and is defined as one of the crack types. According to the literature, VRF is the third most common reason for extraction of an endodontically treated tooth. Prognosis of vertically fractured teeth is usually questionable or poor, oftentimes leading to extraction. Concerning incomplete VRFs, several surgical techniques have been described. A predictable microsurgical technique involves elimination of the fractured part of the root with simultaneous preservation of the healthy root length and regenerative technique to enhance bone reformation. This technique can ultimately save the teeth, obtain periradicular bone healing and restore functionality. The purpose of this presentation is to highlight microscopic surgical preservation for teeth with incomplete VRF in maxillary and mandibular teeth both posterior and anterior.  Case selection for application of these techniques is critical, because incomplete vertical fractures are difficult to diagnose.

Learning Objectives: 

• Diagnose and identify incomplete VRFs on endodontically treated teeth.
• Familiarize with elimination of the VRF line and preservation of sound root structure using microsurgical techniques.
• Describe the case selection criteria for applying microsurgical treatment on endodontically treated teeth with a VRF.

CE Hours: 1.0

Description: Selective root canal retreatment (sRCR) offers a minimally invasive alternative to full retreatment by addressing only diseased roots while preserving healthy ones. This webinar will explore the clinical efficacy, benefits, and risks of sRCR, with a focus on tooth preservation, fracture resistance, and cost-effectiveness. Participants will gain practical insights into integrating this philosophy into daily practice.

Learning Objectives: 

• Describe at least two key findings on the clinical efficacy of selective root canal retreatment (sRCR) compared to full retreatment.
• Analyze how sRCR contributes to tooth preservation and fracture resistance
• Compare the relative cost-effectiveness of sRCR versus full root canal retreatment, identifying at least one patient-centered and one practice-centered implication.

CE Hours: 1.0

Description: Up until recently the only drugs available to manage acute dental l pain were acetaminophen, aspirin, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and opioids. NSAIDs cannot be taken by a variety of patients due to poor renal function, a history of GI ulcers, drug allergy or sensitivity and for the possibility of adverse drug interactions with anticoagulants and lithium. Opioids are wrought with acute side effects including dizziness, drowsiness, nausea, vomiting and constipation. Their potential to cause substance misuse, physical dependence and addiction are also well described.  On January 30, 2025 suzetrigine, a novel voltage gated sodium channel 1.8 (Nav 1.8) blocking agent was granted FDA approval for the management of moderate to severe pain.  By selectively blocking the Nav 1.8 it is hoped that side effects will be less numerous and severe compared to drugs that indiscriminately block other Nav subtypes such as anticonvulsants and local anesthetics.. Unlike opioids, suzetrigine also appears to be devoid of addiction potential. In two Phase 3 post-surgical pain trials on research patients who underwent bunionectomy or abdominoplasty, suzetrigine was significantly more effective than placebo, but its analgesic effects were only equivalent to acetaminophen 325 mg plus hydrocodone 5 mg (APAP 325 mg/HYDRO 5 mg) respectively. These results are somewhat disappointing with regards to postsurgical dental pain where 440 mg naproxen sodium or APAP 500 mg plus ibuprofen 400 mg (APAP 500 mg/IBU 400 mg) have been demonstrated to provide superior analgesic effects when compared to APAP 650 mg/HYDRO 10 mg or APAP 300 mg/HYDRO 5 mg respectively.  This presentation will discuss the genesis of dental postsurgical pain, the nomenclature and anatomical  locations  of various  Nav channel subtypes and suzetrigine's possible utility and limitations in treating orofacial pain.   Suzetrigine represents only the first step to optimize the selective blockade of Nav channels to treat various patient maladies.

Learning Objectives:  

• Discuss the mechanism of action of suzetrigine
• Discuss the advantages and limitations of employing suzetrigine in the treatment of acute dental pain
• Identify which patients should not receive analgesic regimens that contain ibuprofen or naproxen sodium

CE Hours: 1.0

Description: While botulinum toxin is most widely recognized for its cosmetic applications, its therapeutic value in dentistry-and specifically in pain management-is rapidly expanding. This presentation will explore the scientific basis and clinical applications of botulinum toxin for managing pain and dysfunction in the orofacial region. Particular emphasis will be placed on its role in the endodontic practice. Attendees will gain an evidence-based understanding of how botulinum toxin works at the neuromuscular junction, as well as the central nervous system. Current research will be presented to provide a well-balanced overview of the applications for dental practice. Through didactic information and clinical case presentations this session will challenge participants to consider how botulinum toxin may enhance outcomes in complex pain management and interdisciplinary care and provide the endodontic specialist with an additional tool for pain management in clinical practice.

Learning Objectives:  

• Describe the pharmacology and mechanism of action of botulinum toxin relevant to dental applications.
• Identify clinical scenarios in endodontics where botulinum toxin may be beneficial, including persistent pain and suspected muscular disorders.
• Evaluate the current evidence supporting or disputing the therapeutic use of botulinum toxin in dentistry.

CE Hours: 0.

Description: The pathological extension of endodontic disease into the maxillary sinuses is a common disease process yet is often unrecognized in clinical medical and dental practice, with its sequelae often overlooked entirely or misdiagnosed as rhinogenic sinusitis.  This lecture explains and illustrates the etiology, symptoms, and associated clinical and radiographic findings of maxillary sinusitis of endodontic origin (MSEO) with multiple case examples including life-threatening spreading infections.  Emphasis is placed on the importance of CBCT imaging, magnification, and clinical expertise for rendering both non-surgical and surgical endodontic treatment when indicated in the maxillary posterior dentition.  The goal is to help practitioners distinguish rhinosinusitis from MSEO, and improve the health of patients through accurate diagnosis, appropriate treatment, and improved communication between endodontists and ENT specialists.

Learning Objectives:  

• Describe the pathogenic effects and progression of periradicular inflammation on the sinus tissues and the associated clinical and radiographic findings of maxillary sinusitis of endodontic origin (MSEO).
• Recognize the distinguishing differences between rhinogenic sinusitis and odontogenic sinusitis and know when to render endodontic care and/or make an appropriate ENT referral.
• Recognize the indications for endodontic treatment and periapical surgery, and the unique anatomic challenges associated with maxillary posterior teeth proximate to the maxillary sinus.

CE Hours: 1.25

Description: Burnout is one of the biggest challenges facing healthcare professionals today, and endodontists are not immune. Long hours, high-pressure cases, and the emotional weight of patient care can leave even the most dedicated clinician drained and questioning their "why." Burnout Ends Here: Managing Stress and Finding Purpose in Your Work is a powerful, practical session designed to help you take back control. Through honest conversation and real-world strategies, we'll explore the root causes of stress and burnout, and uncover simple, actionable tools to manage them effectively. You'll learn how to identify the early warning signs of burnout, reframe stress so it works for you-not against you-and reconnect with the deeper purpose that first brought you into this profession. This session isn't about theory-it's about tools you can put into practice immediately to restore energy, resilience, and fulfillment in your work and life. Walk away with clarity, confidence, and a renewed sense of purpose that makes you not just a better endodontist, but a healthier, stronger version of yourself.

Learning Objectives:  

• Identify the key drivers of stress and burnout in endodontic practice and recognize early warning signs before they escalate.
• Apply practical stress-management strategies to build resilience, restore energy, and maintain peak performance in daily practice.
• Reignite a sense of purpose and meaning in professional work to enhance long-term fulfillment, motivation, and overall well-being.

CE Hours: 1.0

Description: Dentistry is often perceived as a profession of precision and resilience, yet behind the mask, many providers silently struggle. This presentation sheds light on the growing mental health crisis within the dental community, with a focus on endodontists and other specialists. We'll explore the unique stressors of dental practice-perfectionism, isolation, financial pressures, and patient expectations-that contribute to burnout, depression, and tragically, suicide. Drawing from current research, real stories, and actionable strategies, this session aims to break the stigma, foster open dialogue, and empower attendees to recognize warning signs in themselves and colleagues. Attendees will leave with practical tools to support mental wellness, build a culture of compassion, and advocate for systemic change within the profession. Let's come together to protect not just our patients' health-but our own.

Learning Objectives:  

• Describe the unique psychological stressors faced by dental professionals, including factors contributing to burnout, depression, and suicide risk.
• Identify early warning signs of mental health challenges in themselves and colleagues, and recognize when professional intervention may be needed.
• List evidence-based strategies and available resources to promote mental wellness, foster peer support, and reduce stigma within the dental community.

CE Hours: 1.0

Description: This presentation will focus on two areas.  1) Serious adverse drug interactions that may occur in the Endodontic Patient because of drugs that he/she prescribes or administers and 2) Serious adverse drug interactions that may occur in the endodontist himself/herself because of drugs that they are taking for various medical conditions. The three serious drug interactions that may adversely affect the dental patient include; 1) the ability of the antimicrobials metronidazole and fluconazole to inhibit the metabolism of warfarin by blocking cytochrome P-450 2C9 (CYP-2C9), the major metabolic pathway of warfarin, resulting in dramatic increases in patients' international normalized ratios (INRs) and potentially fatal bleeding. 2) The ability of ibuprofen or naproxen sodium to inhibit the renal excretion of the major bipolar disorder drug lithium resulting in tremors, seizures and renal toxicity. 3) The ability of propranolol and other nonselective beta-adrenergic blocking agents to inhibit the vasodilatory effect of epinephrine in dental local anesthetic solutions, leading to severe hypertensive reactions and a concomitant reflex bradycardia. Interactions relevant to the health of dentists themselves include the ability of grapefruit juice/grapefruit to elevate blood levels of statin cholesterol lowering drugs, increasing the risk of myalgia, rhabdomyolysis and acute renal failure.  It is important for clinicians to understand the theoretical basis behind these often-predictable interactions, and comprehend the evidenced-based-science that supports their existence.

Learning Objectives:  

• Discuss the pharmacological mechanism behind the potentially lethal metronidazole or fluconazole/warfarin interaction.
• Discuss the rationale of why recommending ibuprofen (Advil®) and naproxen sodium (Aleve®) for pain control is a bad idea in a bipolar disorder patient taking lithium (Eskalith®).
• Identify which class of anti-hypertensive drugs where high doses but therapeutic doses of local anesthetic plus epinephrine is most likely to cause a a pressor response with a reflex bradycardia.