CE Hours: 0.75

Description: The presentation will discuss the challenges in diagnosis and treatment planning of Endo-perio lesions. It will then discuss the importance of communication and collaboration between the endodontist and the periodontist in the attempt to save teeth. The role of guided bone regeneration during apical surgery - techniques and indications - will be reviewed as well as the manipulation of soft tissue in the management of resorptive lesions. This lecture will present the conversation and treatment planning of joined surgical procedures to ensure maximum patient benefit.

Learning Objectives:  

• Describe indications for guided bone regeneration during apical surgery.
• Discuss case selection for periodontal intervention before/during/after endodontic treatment
• Analyze periodontal prognosis when combined with endodontic treatment

CE Hours: 0.75

Description: The diagnostic limitations in endodontics have historically impeded clinicians' ability to accurately visualize complex root canal structures. Two-dimensional imaging diagnostics fail to capture the complex structures essential for developing optimal treatment plans. We introduce a novel mobile extended reality (XR) platform that integrates Cone-Beam CT (CBCT) data with cloud-based technology to enable real-time three-dimensional visualization during endodontic procedures. This platform leverages mobile XR technology, allowing clinicians to use standard portable devices (smartphones/tablets) to overlay high-resolution 3D AR models of maxillofacial structures and root canal systems onto the surgical field. The system, through cloud connectivity, facilitates seamless integration of pre-operative CBCT data with intraoperative visualization, enhancing both non-surgical and surgical endodontic procedures. Clinical implementation across multiple cases has demonstrated significant improvement in anatomical understanding and procedural precision. Clinicians exhibited enhanced ability to navigate complex root canal systems and accurately locate surgical sites. The 3D visualization of CBCT data through 3D AR models enabled unprecedented spatial awareness during microsurgical procedures. This mobile XR platform represents a paradigm shift in endodontic practice by transcending the limitations of conventional imaging modalities. The mobile extended reality (XR) platform, accessible from common mobile devices, facilitates widespread adoption across various clinical settings and educational environments.

Learning Objectives:  

• Describe how the integration of Cone-Beam CT data with mobile extended reality (XR) technology overcomes traditional diagnostic limitations in endodontic practice.
• Explain how real-time 3D visualization enhances endodontic procedures by improving navigation of complex root canals and surgical site identification.
• Evaluate the potential impact of cloud-connected mobile XR platforms on procedural precision, clinical accessibility, and educational applications in endodontics.

CE Hours: 1.5

Description: Digital dentistry is rapidly evolving, and endodontic surgery is at the forefront of this transformation. While CBCT remains a cornerstone of diagnosis and planning, new technologies are reshaping the surgical workflow from visualization to execution. This lecture will showcase how tools such as 3D printing, digital planning software, and immersive platforms like augmented and virtual reality can enhance precision, improve clinical confidence, and expand treatment possibilities. Using case examples and practical workflows, we will explore how these technologies integrate into daily practice, helping clinicians deliver safer, more predictable, and patient-centered surgical care

Learning Objectives:  

• Describe how digital planning tools complement traditional CBCT imaging in surgical case assessment.
• Explain the role of 3D printing and virtual surgical simulation in enhancing precision and safety.
• Assess the clinical benefits and limitations of adopting digital technologies for targeted microsurgical procedures.

CE Hours: 1.5

Description: For endodontists, it is easy to assume that any radiolucency associated with pain is of pulpal or inflammatory origin, especially if the tooth has a significant restorative history.  However, numerous disease entities of variable clinical significance can be identified in the periapical region and differentiating the typical endodontic presentation from that of a potentially more life threatening or insidious etiology is of critical importance to ensure ideal management and outcome.  This review, based on clinical cases, will highlight the limitations of pulp testing, periapical imaging and cone beam computerized tomography.  A systematic method to develop a differential diagnosis of periapical pathology will be the main focus of this discussion.

Learning Objectives:  

• Recognize the limits of available technology and issues related to pulp testing and radiographic imaging.
• Describe how the growth pattern of the various pathologies affects clinical management and recurrence rates
• Discuss the radiographic changes consistent with non-inflammatory etiologies and recognize when referral for biopsy is indicated.

CE Hours: 1.5

Description: The advent of laser technology has significantly transformed the landscape of medical and dental surgery, offering improved precision, minimal invasiveness, and enhanced healing outcomes. In dentistry, lasers are already well-established in periodontal and oral surgeries. This presentation explores the emerging and increasingly promising role of dental lasers in Endodontic microsurgery, examining their applications in critical procedures such as incision, osteotomy, root-end resection, bone decortication, and photo-biomodulation. Through the presentation of recent data and clinical findings, we evaluate whether lasers can effectively replace traditional instruments in terms of efficacy, precision, and patient outcomes. Key benefits highlighted include minimized postoperative pain, reduced swelling, and faster recovery times. Additionally, for the first time, we introduce the concept and application of laser-guided endodontic surgery, showcasing how this integration enhances surgical navigation and accuracy. The central question-whether lasers will fully replace traditional tools-will be addressed through clinical evidence, technological capabilities, and practical considerations, offering a comprehensive perspective on the future of Endodontic microsurgery.

Learning Objectives:  

• Identify the specific clinical procedures in Endodontic microsurgery where lasers can be utilized, including incision, osteotomy, root-end resection, bone decortication, and photo-biomodulation.
• Compare laser-based techniques with traditional surgical instrumentarium, assessing the advantages and limitations of each approach.
• Evaluate the clinical benefits of laser use in microsurgery, such as reduced invasiveness, minimized postoperative pain, decreased swelling, and improved healing outcomes.

CE Hours: 1.0

Description: The MB2 canal, an anatomical feature present in maxillary molars, has garnered significant attention in endodontics due to its clinical significance and challenges in identification and treatment. This lecture aims to explore strategies for predictably locating and treating the MB2 canal, enhancing clinicians' ability to achieve successful endodontic outcomes. The first part of the lecture delves into the anatomy of maxillary molars, emphasizing the variability and prevalence of the MB2 canal. Understanding the internal morphology of these teeth is crucial for predicting the presence and location of additional canals, such as the elusive MB2. Next, the lecture will review diagnostic techniques and technologies that aid in MB2 canal detection. From advanced imaging modalities like CBCT to clinical indicators such as the presence of additional orifices, attendees will learn practical methods for identifying the MB2 canal during treatment planning. The main focus will then shift to treatment protocols optimized for managing the MB2 canal. Techniques like modified access openings, careful exploration using ultrasonic tips and microscopes, and negotiation with specific instruments will be discussed in detail. Case studies illustrating successful MB2 canal treatment will be presented, highlighting key learning points and common pitfalls to avoid. Emphasis will be placed on predictable and efficient workflows that can be incorporated into everyday practice. In conclusion, this lecture will empower attendees with the knowledge and skills necessary to confidently navigate the complexities of the MB2 canal, ultimately improving clinical outcomes and patient satisfaction in endodontic procedures involving maxillary molars.

Learning Objectives:  

• Discuss practical methods for identifying the MB2 canal during treatment planning
• Describe treatment protocols optimized for managing the MB2 canal
• Perform predictable and efficient workflows that can be incorporated into everyday practice

CE Hours: 1.25

Description: 

Learning Objectives:  

• Describe how AI algorithms analyze 2D and 3D endodontic radiographs to assist in diagnosis.
• Identify clinical applications of AI in endodontic imaging, including lesion detection, root morphology assessment, and canal classification.
• Recognize the benefits and limitations of integrating AI into endodontic radiographic interpretation.

CE Hours: 1.0

Description: Laser activated irrigation continues to generate excitement in endodontics, but its clinical value requires careful, unbiased evaluation. This session will present three years of independent studies investigating both the advantages and limitations of laser use in root canal treatment. Topics will include the impact of early application during crown down instrumentation, effectiveness in smear layer removal, ability to enhance irrigant penetration into complex anatomies such as isthmuses and lateral canals, its influence on obturation, the potential for irrigant extrusion, and its role in the removal of residual gutta percha during retreatment. By presenting data from a series of independent projects, this session will move beyond speculation and provide participants with a balanced understanding of what laser irrigation can and cannot deliver. Attendees will come away with practical insights to guide evidence based decision making about integrating lasers into endodontic practice, ensuring their use is grounded in science rather than marketing.

Learning Objectives:  

• Identify the advantages of laser activated irrigation in enhancing canal cleaning, including smear layer removal, irrigant penetration into complex anatomies, residual gutta percha removal, and obturation quality.
• Recognize the limitations of laser activated irrigation in achieving these same outcomes and compare its performance with other activation methods.
• Evaluate the risks associated with laser irrigation, including the potential for irrigant extrusion, and integrate this knowledge into evidence based clinical decision making.

CE Hours: 1.0

Description: This study aimed to diagnose vertical root fracture (VRF) of endodontically treated teeth using clinical features and bone loss information from cone beam computed tomography with machine learning models.

At the conclusion of this article, the reader will be able to: 

• Explain why machine learning models for the diagnosis of VRF using age, sex, tooth type,the quality of root canal filling and bone loss position, height, width, and depth are valuable for clinical decision making after root canal treatment
• Describe how to diagnose vertical root fracture (VRF) of endodontically treated teeth using clinical features and bone loss information from cone beam computed tomography
• Explain the relationship between VRF and machine learning models

CE Hours: 1.0

Description: Managing root resorption can be challenging as it involves the management of pulpal, periapical, and periodontal tissues. The clinician must consider long-term vs. short-term outcomes, function, and esthetics. Maintaining a balance between conservative and aggressive approaches renders the decision-making process complicated. In this presentation, biological and clinical aspects of different types of resorption will be explored, with a focus on External Invasive Resorption. Various approaches to the treatment of root resorption will also be discussed.

Learning Objectives:  

• Identify common types of root resorption.
• List clinical and pathobiological features for each type of resorption.
• Describe various treatment modalities for External Invasive Resorption.