Speaker: Frank C. Setzer, D.M.D., Ph.D., M.S. Hardly any technique in dentistry has changed so much over the last years as endodontic surgery. This lecture discusses the factors affecting the outcome of endodontic surgery, including patient-related issues, such as medical history, dental history or condition of the tooth, as well as techniques and new materials.

Speaker: Anne L. Koch, D.M.D. Recently, it has been reported that a single cone bioceramic sealer technique has been used in twenty million cases. This presentation will share the history of this technique that has gained worldwide acceptance from its genesis through today.

Speaker: Fred S. Tsutsui, D.M.D. , Many studies have shown that microleakage and contamination of the endodontic fill is a serious problem and concern to the postoperative success of endodontic treatment. The purpose of this presentation is to discuss methods and techniques to prevent microleakage contamination of the completed endodontic treatment.

CEX-5: Speaker: Sasidhar Nallapati, B.D.S. Variation in root canal anatomy makes treatment challenging yet exciting. Treating complex and anomalous anatomy requires sound knowledge of the nature of the anomaly, and the skill set to effectively treat it. CEX-6: Speaker: Kenneth Hargreaves, D.D.S., Ph.D. There is an acceleration of research findings in fields directly related to endodontics as well as in broader areas of science. Here, we will provide a succinct review of top research findings around the world with a focus on clinical implications. CEX-7: Speaker: Garrett M. Guess, D.D.S. Historical outcomes for endodontic periapical surgery span a wide range and as a result, the procedure is often referred as an unpredictable or undesirable option by those who have experienced the low end of the outcome range or high rate of complications. This short presentation will review cases that highlight the key steps of modern endodontic microsurgery crucial to obtaining successful results.

Speaker: Mahmoud Torabinejad, D.M.D., M.S.D., Ph.D. , Endodontic surgery consists of sealing of all portals of exits to the root canal system, elimination of bacteria from contaminating the periradicular tissues, and providing an environment that allows for regeneration of periradicular tissues. Studies have reported significant differences in healing with and without root-end filling materials.

CEX-4: Speaker: James L. Gutmann, D.D.S. A brief look at our historical roots will verify that these anatomical variations have been well known for over 100 years. This presentation will explore all aspects of this contemporary, perceived discovery. CEX-5: Speaker: Eric J. Herbranson, D.D.S., M.S. This course will review the rationale for dentin preservation in conventional endodontic therapy. It will argue that conserving dentin results in stronger teeth, improved fracture resistance and more tooth retention.

Speaker: Bekir Karabucak, D.M.D., M.S. Endodontic microsurgery has evolved tremendously due to advances in materials and surgical techniques. In the last decade, Mineral Trioxide Aggregate has become the material of choice based on biological principles; however, the cost and handling properties remain practical obstacles to its use. Recently, other calcium silicate cements, like EndoSequence® Root Repair Material (Brasseler USA, Savannah, Ga.) have been introduced that overcome some of these working issues. This presentation will review the clinical applications, outcomes and biological responses of bioceramic root repair materials.  

Speaker: Frank Paque, D.M.D. Root canal anatomy is very complex, and variations in number and arrangement of root canals are significant in many tooth groups. Root canal treatment of teeth with complex anatomy requires not only basic knowledge of variations in the number of root canals, but also knowledge of the possible unique arrangement of the canals. The three-dimensional imaging of teeth using micro-computed tomography is very helpful for the clinician to learn about complex anatomy. Furthermore, scanned teeth can be kept intact and the impact of endodontic procedures on root canal anatomy can be analyzed. Besides the evaluation of alterations of root canals after preparation with different instruments, side effects like hard tissue debris accumulation into non-instrumented areas can be displayed and calculated.

Speaker: George A. Bruder, D.M.D. This course is designed for endodontists who want to incorporate the latest science-based treatment and enhance their knowledge of dentin conservation and restoring endodontically treated teeth. Root canal treatment is a key way to save teeth that otherwise might have to be extracted. However, the impact of traditional RCT techniques can weaken teeth, leaving them susceptible to subsequent fracture. This course explores the implications of recent research into endodontic access and instrumentation. The attendee will learn how to conform to the natural morphology and disinfect the canal while retaining more dentin. These techniques allow the body a chance to heal itself, while at the same time lowering the risk of post-endodontic stress-related tooth fractures.

Speaker: James Drummond, D.D.S., Ph.D, The focus of the presentation is NIDCR’s research past, present and future for dental materials and biomaterials. Topics to be presented will follow the Institute’s support of basic and translational extramural research on dental materials and devices, dental implants, biocompatibility of dental restorative materials, and biomaterials for craniofacial reconstruction.