Small Patients, Big Decisions: Preserving the Developing Tooth – Ep. 89
Treating pediatric and adolescent patients can bring a unique set of clinical and communication challenges, but it also presents an opportunity for endodontists to make an impact that lasts well into adulthood. In this episode of Endo Voices, Dr. Marcus Johnson sits down with longtime colleague Dr. Beth Damas to explore the intersection of pediatric dentistry and endodontics. The two also reflect on their shared history, including participating in the AAE’s Leadership Development Program together. From managing anxious young patients and their parents to navigating trauma, mixed dentition and the developing tooth, Dr. Damas offers several insights.
She shares her practical approach to vital pulp therapy, case selection, bioceramic materials and follow-up, emphasizing a philosophy of preserving healthy pulp tissue and allowing immature teeth the opportunity to continue developing whenever possible. The conversation also explores regenerative endodontics, CBCT, orthodontic considerations and the importance of collaboration among endodontists, pediatric dentists, orthodontists and general practitioners.
Endo Voices is generously sponsored by Endodontic Practice Partners.
Episode Resources
- American Association of Endodontists. (2021). AAE position statement on vital pulp therapy. Journal of Endodontics, 47(9), 1340–1344. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.joen.2021.07.015
- Banchs, F., & Trope, M. (2004). Revascularization of immature permanent teeth with apical periodontitis: New treatment protocol? Journal of Endodontics, 30(4), 196–200. https://doi.org/10.1097/00004770-200404000-00003
- Damas, B. A., Wheater, M. A., Bringas, J. S., & Hoen, M. M. (2011). Cytotoxicity comparison of mineral trioxide aggregates and EndoSequence bioceramic root repair materials. Journal of Endodontics, 37(3), 372–375. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.joen.2010.11.027
- M. Torabinejad, C.U. Hong, T.R. Pitt Ford, J.D. Kettering, Cytotoxicity of four root end filling materials, Journal of Endodontics, Volume 21, Issue 10,1995,Pages 489-492
- Johnson, Marcus D. "Endodontics and Antibiotic Update." Colleagues for Excellence, Fall 2019, American Association of Endodontists, https://www.aae.org/colleagues. Accessed 10 May 2021.
Disclaimer
Episodes of Endo Voices may include opinion, speculation and other statements not verifiable in the scientific method and do not necessarily reflect the views of AAE or the sponsor(s). Listeners should use their best judgment in evaluating the merits of any content.