Updating Diagnostic Terminology in Endodontics
A Collaborative Proposal by the AAE and ESE
New Phase of Stakeholder Review
The Joint AAE–ESE Special Committee has completed its review of stakeholder feedback received through:
- Online stakeholder survey
- The Open Hearing at the European Society of Endodontology Biennial Congress (September 2025)
- Additional written submissions from individuals and organizations
The committee has categorized this input into major themes and developed responses and proposed refinements to the pulpal and periapical diagnostic tables.
Please review the committee’s analysis before participating in the AAE26 hearing.
This document summarizes the feedback received to date and explains how the committee has addressed the most frequently raised questions and concerns.
Reviewing this document in advance will help ensure that discussion at the upcoming hearing focuses on areas where additional clarification or consensus may still be needed
Final Opportunity for Written Comments
To allow one final opportunity for written feedback, a short, open-ended comment form will remain available until June 1, 2026.
Stakeholders may use this form to provide additional comments after reviewing the committee’s feedback analysis.
Open Hearing at AAE26
The Joint AAE–ESE Special Committee will present its analysis of stakeholder feedback and proposed responses during an Open Hearing at the AAE Annual Meeting 2026.
The hearing will:
- Summarize feedback received during the stakeholder review phase
- Present the committee’s responses and proposed refinements
- Invite final comments on the pulpal and periapical diagnostic tables
Stakeholders attending the hearing are strongly encouraged to review the feedback summary and Hearing Guidelines in advance. Please RSVP by April 10 if you plan to attend.
About This Initiative
The American Association of Endodontists (AAE) and the European Society of Endodontology (ESE) have jointly launched an initiative to update endodontic diagnostic terminology. This project builds on the 2009 classification published in the Journal of Endodontics and reflects the latest advancements in vital pulp therapy, diagnostic imaging, and our evolving understanding of pulpal and periapical disease.
Since July 2023, a Joint Special Committee composed of expert representatives from both organizations has worked intensively to develop an updated diagnostic classification framework. This includes two tables intended to be used in tandem, as part of a comprehensive clinical diagnosis in endodontic practice. Please view a background statement from the committee as well as proposed tables at the links below:
Why This Matters
An accurate, contemporary diagnostic language is essential for:
- Improving clinical communication
- Enhancing educational resources
- Supporting research standardization
- Ensuring consistent reporting of clinical conditions
Yet despite advances in technologies like CBCT and improved outcomes from vital pulp therapies, there remain significant limitations in commercially available diagnostic tools and persistent gaps in clinical knowledge. These realities shaped the development of this classification—and reinforce the importance of broad-based input.
