THE INTEGRATION OF NEW ENDODONTIC TECHNOLOGIES BY INDIAN DENTAL PRACTITIONERS
Dr. Eva Mishra, Dr. Seema Dixit, Dr. Vertika Mahar, Dr. Anil Dhingra, Dr. Anshdeep Singh, Dr. Sheetal Grover
Department of Conservative Dentistry & Endodontics,
Seema Dental College & Hospital, Rishikesh-249203, Uttarakhand, India
Abstract – Aim: This research aimed to assess the adoption of new endodontic technologies in general dental practices across India in 2024. Objectives: The main objective of this research was to recognize and analyze awareness and the practical implementation of new endodontic technologies among dental practitioners in India. Materials & Methods: A detailed questionnaire comprising 15 inquiries was formulated and distributed via Google Forms to gather data on the inculcation of new endodontic technologies among Indian Dental Practitioners. A random sampling of dental practitioners all over India was conducted to ensure a varied representation. The questionnaire focused on awareness about newer technologies, procedures, and perspectives of youngsters for their betterment of smile and approach towards professional care. Data collection was facilitated through online responses. Results: The survey findings, acquired via Google Forms, unveiled intriguing disparities in awareness regarding the integration of new endodontic technologies in Indian Dental Practitioners. Findings revealed that 80.6% of dental practitioners in India utilized a combination of Apex locator & Radiograph as a preferred method of determining working length. 5th generation apex locator emerged as the predominantly used apex locator, employed by 34.7% of respondents. sodium hypochlorite emerged as the predominant irrigant, employed by 75.7% of respondents. The preferred technique for bio-mechanical preparation was chosen as hybrid by 40.8% of practitioners. Calcium hydroxide emerged as the most frequently used intracanal medicament, accounting for 85.4 % of cases. Lateral condensation with gutta-percha ranked as the most prevalent obturation method, utilized by 44.7%. The majority favored bioceramics as a sealer 47.1%. The composite material was the preferred choice 76.7% for post-obturation restoration, with most respondents opting for PFM crowns following root canal treatment 48.5%. There were no notable differences between genders in the adoption of new dental technologies. Conclusion: The results indicate a gradual & steady adoption of new endodontic technologies and materials in clinical practice across India. This survey further highlights the importance of continuous dental education programs for practitioners to stay informed about the latest advancements.
Keywords: Endodontic Practice, Root Canal Therapy, Apex Locators, Working length determination, NiTi Instruments, Irrigating Solutions, Medicaments, Sealants, Obturation Techniques, Emerging Technologies, Survey.