Medication-Related Osteonecrosis of the Jaw (MRONJ) Mistaken for Acute Apical Abscess.

The objective of this case study is to report on the diagnosis and treatment of medication-related osteonecrosis of the jaw (MRONJ), which was originally misdiagnosed and mistreated as endodontic disease. A patient was referred for worsening odontalgia despite root canal therapy on tooth No. 19 and a course of oral antibiotics.

Evidence-Based Pain Management: Dispelling Disinformation in Dentistry.

According to the American Dental Association Principles of Ethics and Code of Professional Conduct, dental professionals hold a special position of trust and privilege within society, and thus are bound to adhere to the highest standards of conduct. This code of ethics defines key tenets, including veracity, patient autonomy, beneficence, nonmaleficence, and justice. Maintaining these ethical principles goes beyond the competent delivery of operative care and requires up-to-date, evidence-based knowledge and practices on the part of clinicians.

Incidental CBCT Findings: The Importance of Reading the Whole Image.

The use of cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) imaging often elicits changes in both diagnostics and treatment plans when incorporated into endodontic workups. In endodontic practice, CBCT scans enable detection of periapical pathology before it is apparent on traditional 2-dimensional intraoral radiographs. The visualization provided by CBCT scans can help clinicians confirm suspected diagnoses, including but not limited to periapical pathology, traumatic tooth displacement, and vertical root fracture.

Saving Cracked Teeth: The Current State of Evidence.

Treatment planning for cracked teeth can be quite challenging for clinicians, as various outcomes-related clinical parameters must be considered. Historically, extraction was recommended for cracked teeth with radicular extensions due to their poor prognosis. Recent literature, however, suggests that these teeth may be saved with careful case selection and appropriate treatment.

Vital Pulp Therapy: Managing Deep Caries in the Permanent Dentition.

The adoption of vital pulp therapy (VPT) is a significant advancement in preserving the longevity of vital mature pulp. VPT represents a potential alternative approach to nonsurgical root canal therapy in which compromised pulp is treated such that it maintains its vitality and function. With the introduction of novel bioceramic materials, including calcium silicate cements and mineral trioxide aggregate, the prognosis for VPT in mature permanent teeth has greatly increased, and as a result, adaptation of VPT in these teeth has garnered considerable support.