American Association of Endodontists

During the ADA House of Delegates Meeting on October 25 – 28, 2025, AAE leadership, members serving as ADA delegates, and staff represented the specialty at organized dentistry’s largest policymaking forum of the year. This year’s meeting was record-breaking, both in the number of resolutions considered and in the level of delegate engagement. The event reflected a renewed commitment across the dental community to shaping policy that advances clinical excellence and supports the profession’s evolving needs. For AAE, the meeting capped months of review, collaboration, and preparation to ensure that endodontic priorities were clearly heard and effectively advanced within the ADA.

AAE members serving in the ADA House of Delegates:
Drs. Najia Usman, Blake McKinley, Ammon Anderson, Deborah Bishop, Alejandro Aguirre, Afshin Mazdeyasnan, Angela Noguera, Shaun Whitney, Adrienne Korkosz, Emad Bassali, D. Gregory Chadwick, Joseph Platt, Monique Belin, Amro Elkhatieb, Robert Roda, Thomas Brown, Robin Nguyen, Robert Hanlon, Michael Korch, Mitchell Greenberg, Kevin Bryant, Alana Humberson, Dustin Reynolds, Tadros Tadros, and Bethany Douglas

While the ADA does not allocate designated seats for specialty societies in the House, the AAE is fortunate to have 25 members serving as delegates and alternate delegates for various ADA state and district chapters. As a smaller dental specialty, the AAE maintains a strong presence in the House of Delegates, with many members actively participating on key committees and councils, some even in leadership roles. This strong representation is a testament to the steadfast leadership and vision of AAE President Dr. Steven J. Katz, President-Elect Dr. W. Craig Noblett, and Secretary Dr. Mark B. Desrosiers, whose commitment to elevating the AAE’s influence within organized dentistry was exemplified through their testimony and insights at the House of Delegates meeting.

Each year, the AAE Board of Directors supports its members serving as ADA Delegates and Alternate Delegates by reviewing and formulating formal positions on resolutions and reports that significantly impact endodontists. This process spans several months and is led by Najia Usman, DDS, the AAE’s designated House of Delegates Liaison Chair. Dr. Usman collaborated closely with AAE staff to track and analyze a record-breaking number of relevant resolutions and reports, as this meeting featured the most introduced in recent ADA House of Delegates history. The relevant resolutions were reviewed with the AAE Board of Directors for ultimate approval.

The meeting also marked the induction of ADA President, Dr. Richard J. Rosato, who centered his inaugural address on unity across the dental specialties. Dr. Rosato specifically recognized the AAE for its leadership and advocacy on critical specialty issues, emphasizing collaboration on matters such as specialty advertising and scope of practice. He affirmed his commitment to prioritizing these concerns throughout his term.

AAE leadership and staff also participated in a joint meeting with representatives from other dental specialties to discuss shared advocacy priorities and exchange perspectives on resolutions impacting specialists within the house of dentistry. The Dental Specialty Group (DSG) serves as a vital forum for fostering collaboration among specialties, building consensus on key policy positions, and advancing the collective interests of dental specialists within the broader profession.

AAE Policy Wins

AAE once again proved to be the strong, steady voice of the specialty at this year’s ADA House of Delegates meeting—pushing back against proposals that threatened to blur professional boundaries and reaffirming the vital role of endodontists in patient care.

This year’s ADA House of Delegates meeting saw a record number of resolutions addressing topics vital to endodontists including regulatory concerns, insurance issues, specialty advertising, and endodontic education. Through strategic advocacy and expert testimony, AAE leaders ensured that policies advancing patient care and professional integrity prevailed, while measures representing overreach were successfully defeated or redirected for further study.

Oppose Resolution 412: Addressing the Barriers to Pediatric Endodontic Treatment.

Drs. Katz, Desrosiers and Usman, testified in opposition to a resolution proposing ADA oversight of collaboration between the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) and the AAE to enhance pediatric endodontic training. The AAE delegation reaffirmed that endodontists already possess the expertise necessary to treat pediatric patients and can independently collaborate with the AAPD on future shared initiatives. The Reference Committee supported the AAE’s position and recommended a “no” vote, which the House of Delegates. Affirmed, tabling the resolution.

Oppose Resolution 510B: Amendment to the Policy, Legislative Assistance by the Association.

Drs. Katz, Desrosiers and Usman also spoke against a resolution that could limit the ADA’s ability to act swiftly on national advocacy issues involving scope of practice and specialty recognition. The AAE delegation testified that this measure risked weakening the profession’s ability to respond quickly and cohesively to external threats, and recommended referring the resolution back to committee for further study and refinement, ensuring that recognized specialties – including the AAE – have input to safeguard patients and the profession. The Reference Committee agreed, and the House of Delegates voted to refer the resolution back for revision. This outcome preserved the ADA’s ability to advocate freely and ensured specialty voices remain central to policymaking.

Refer Resolution 517: Amendment to ADA Policy on Medical (Dental) Loss Ratio.

AAE also helped shape the conversation around Dental Loss Ratio (DLR) reform, reinforcing the need for greater accountability from insurance providers. Dr. Usman testified in support of refining ADA policy to ensure that patient premiums are used for care—not administrative costs. AAE has long advocated for a minimum DLR of 83% to ensure that patient premiums are directed toward clinical care rather than administrative overhead. AAE advocated for continued study through the ADA Council on Dental Benefit Programs to develop a policy that holds insurers accountable while avoiding unnecessary administrative burdens for providers. The House adopted this recommendation, referring the resolution for refinement that aligns with AAE’s long-standing call for fairness, transparency, and patient-centered reform.

AAE Luncheon

The AAE hosted a luncheon on Saturday, October 25, 2025, led by AAE Delegate Chair, Dr. Najia Usman, for all AAE members serving as Delegates and Alternate Delegates. The event provided an opportunity to discuss key resolutions and align advocacy strategies. AAE President, Dr. Steven Katz, expressed appreciation to AAE members for their service and leadership and welcomed special guests ADA President, Dr. Brett H. Kessler, President-Elect, Dr. Richard Rosato, and ADA Interim Executive Director, Dr. Elizabeth Shapiro, who each reiterated their support for specialty collaboration and shared priorities.

The AAE is grateful to its members who serve as Delegates and Alternate Delegates in the ADA House of Delegates, representing the interests of our specialty. We look forward to continuing to support these leaders and nurture the next generation of advocates in the House. If you want to get involved with your local ADA state chapter and the ADA House of Delegates process, please contact advocacy@aae.org.

By Dr. Matthew Malek

It has been over a century since the first rotary file was introduced, when Oltamare used fine needles with a rectangular cross-section mounted on a handpiece ¹; however, early efforts to implement engine-driven files faced significant challenges, including poor resistance to torsional and cyclic fatigue, alteration of the canal’s internal morphology, and a high risk of iatrogenic errors. Many engineers of the time concentrated on kinematics, exploring various motion patterns to enhance the technology’s functionality. However, the concept failed to capture the enduring attention of a broad base of clinicians.

A renewed focus on kinematics in the following decades led to notable enhancements. In 1963, MicroMega engineers located in France introduced the Giromatic system, one of the earliest commercially available devices to employ reciprocating motion ². This system utilizes stainless steel reamers powered by an engine to generate controlled reciprocation, aiming to enhance safety and reduce instrument fatigue. Micromega credited the Giromatic as one of the first systems to implement this form of kinematic motion in endodontic instrumentation ³. While researchers were assessing the impact of emerging kinematic systems, they remained largely unaware that just a few years earlier, in 1960, a transformative alloy—nickel-titanium (NiTi), also known as Nitinol—had been developed in Silver Springs, Maryland. Decades later, this alloy would revolutionize root canal instrumentation and fundamentally alter endodontic practice. The endodontic community would wait nearly three decades for the transformative potential of NiTi to be realized. In 1988, Dr. Harmeet Walia first reported the use of NiTi (56% nickel: 44% titanium) in endodontic files, highlighting its superior flexibility and shape memory ⁴. This innovation paved the way for further advancements. In 1990, Dr. John McSpadden developed the first engine-driven NiTi rotary instrument. By 1992, Dr. Ben Johnson had introduced and commercialized the first 0.04 and 0.06 taper rotary files, marking a significant milestone in the evolution of rotary endodontics⁵.

Researchers quickly recognized the unique properties of the NiTi alloy, particularly its superelasticity and shape memory. These characteristics allow the material to undergo reversible deformation of up to 8% strain—significantly higher than the ~0.2% strain limit typical of most conventional metals—without permanent or plastic deformation.⁶ This enhanced flexibility and resilience translated into notable clinical advantages, including a reduced incidence of instrument separation due to cyclic fatigue, improved preservation of the original canal morphology, and minimized canal transportation ⁷.

However, it was soon recognized that while the shape memory property of NiTi allows instruments to return to their original form after deformation, it also makes them susceptible to cyclic fatigue. Additionally, despite significantly outperforming stainless steel files in maintaining canal curvature, NiTi instruments can still exert a tendency to straighten the canal, albeit to a much lesser extent ⁸. To address these limitations, engineers shifted their focus to modifying the phase transformation behavior of NiTi alloys through various heat treatment procedures. By altering the transformation temperatures, they aimed to enhance flexibility, fatigue resistance, and clinical performance. Over the next three decades following the introduction of the first NiTi rotary files, the focus of innovation gradually shifted from kinematics to metallurgy, marking a new era in the evolution of endodontic instrumentation ⁹. The rapid pace and breadth of advancements in NiTi file technology have given rise to the development of numerous novel technologies and heat treatment processes. As a result, there are now approximately 150 to 200 different file types available on the market, combining metallurgical advancements with innovative geometry and kinematics to revolutionize the cleaning and shaping of canals.

The wide variety of files available on the market can often confuse dentists, as each company promotes its file system as uniquely superior. However, a careful evaluation reveals that many of these systems share fundamental physical similarities. Understanding these shared characteristics can help clinicians choose the most effective option within each category, maximizing the benefits of current file technologies. Next, we will review contemporary trends in NiTi rotary file design, focusing on metallurgy, geometry, and kinematics.

Metallurgy:

Shortly after the introduction of Nitinol, scientists discovered that its temperature-dependent, two-phase crystalline structure—characterized by transformations between austenite and martensite—could be altered ¹⁰. Austenite, the high-temperature phase of the alloy, is known for its superelasticity and rigidity, whereas martensite, the low-temperature phase, is distinguished by its flexibility and softness. The rhombohedral phase (R-phase) is an intermediate state that appears during cooling, characterized by a coexistence of both austenite and martensite structures, and occurs just before the complete transformation to the martensite phase ¹¹. An austenitic file can also transform into martensitic under mechanical stress—a process known as stress-induced martensite transformation. While this change is reversible with heat, excessive stress beyond a certain threshold can lead to permanent plastic deformation of the file ¹².

By applying various heat-treatment processes, engineers have successfully modified the alloy’s phase transformation between austenite and martensite, allowing them to tailor the file’s mechanical behavior to perform optimally at specific temperatures. This advancement paved the way for the development of a wide range of files with distinct mechanical behaviors, ranging from the original austenitic files, which are stable at room temperature, to those exhibiting martensitic properties. Over the past 15 years, the evolution of this technology has prompted numerous companies to introduce their own proprietary heat-treatment methods. Some of these notable technologies are listed below:

Technology	Company	Date	Significance	Examples
M-Wire	Dentsply Tulsa Dental Specialties	2007	Higher R-phase and martensitic structures compared to original austenitic files	ProFile^®, GT^®, ProTaper^® Next, WaveOne^®
R-phase	Sybron Endo	2008	Austenite; twisted in R-phase	Twisted files (TF™)
CM-wire	DS Dental	2010	Higher total stable martensitic phase	Hyflex^® CM, V-Taper^® 2H
Blue-wire	Dentsply	2011	Higher total stable martensitic phase	Vortex Blue^®
Gold-wire	Dentsply	2011	Higher total stable martensitic phase	ProTaper^® Gold, WaveOne^® Gold,
EDM	Coltene	2016	Higher total stable martensitic phase; includes the electric discharge machining technology	Hyflex^®EDM
Maxwire^®	FKG	2016	Martensitic in room temperature changing to austenitic in the canal	XP- 3D Shaper™, XP-3D Finisher™, XP – 4D ™
DualWire®	Zarc	2021	Includes two heat treatments (Gold and Blue) in a single instrument.	BlueShaper PRO®
Compared to earlier heat treatment technologies such as M-wire and R-phase,, each subsequent advancement has aimed, among other goals, to increase the proportion of stable martensitic crystals in the alloy at body temperature. This shift results in files that are more martensitic, offering greater elasticity and improved resistance to cyclic fatigue. Two notable exceptions to this trend are MaxWire and DualWire heat treatment technologies. MaxWire produces files that are martensitic at room temperature but transform to the austenitic phase inside the canal, allowing the file to adapt to the canal’s shape. DualWire technology takes a unique approach by combining two different heat treatments within a single file (Blue and Gold), with the apical third treated to be more austenitic (Gold) than the shaft (Blue), optimizing flexibility where it is most needed¹³.

Files with more stable martensitic crystals are softer and more elastic, enabling them to deform reversibly without exhibiting shape memory or a tendency to return to their original shape, unless heated above a specific threshold known as the austenite finish temperature. If the austenite finish temperature is higher than body temperature, the file will retain a proportion of martensitic crystals during use in the root canal ¹⁴. This increased martensitic content enhances the file’s flexibility, allowing it to bend or deform within a certain range without permanent plastic deformation, thereby improving its resistance to cyclic and, to some extent, torsional fracture.

Geometry

Geometry refers to the physical characteristics of a file, including its taper, thickness, cross-sectional design, helical angle, and pitch.

Taper and thickness: In general, a file’s thickness and taper are directly related to its overall mass. In other words, for any given cross-section, a file with greater thickness and taper will possess a higher mass, resulting in increased stiffness ¹⁵. These characteristics make thicker and higher-taper files useful in wider canals or when increased stiffness is needed to resist torsional fatigue. However, this comes at the cost of reduced resistance to cyclic fatigue. NiTi files inherently possess superelasticity and flexibility, allowing manufacturers to increase taper and thickness with less concern for cyclic fatigue and canal straightening. Still, under normal clinical conditions, thicker, higher-taper files are more likely to alter the internal canal and are at a greater risk of separation in curved canals compared to thinner files. Conversely, lower-taper files tend to preserve canal curviture, which is advantageous in curved canals. To offset the increased stiffness caused by greater taper or thickness, modifications to the cross-sectional design have been employed.

Cross-section: Among other properties, the cross-sectional design influences cutting efficiency, debris removal, and flexibility. A larger cross-sectional mass increases stiffness, which is beneficial for enhancing torsional fatigue resistance, whereas a smaller cross-section is more favorable for resisting cyclic fatigue ¹⁶. A square cross-section generally exhibits greater stiffness than a rectangular one,¹⁷ while a triple helix design tends to be stiffer than a triple U cross-section ¹⁸. Cross-sectional modifications have been strategically used to reduce stiffness in larger files. For instance, ProTaper^® Gold files feature a convex triangular cross-section in sizes S1 to F2, and a concave cross-section in sizes F3 to F5—an intentional design that decreases core mass in larger files, improving flexibility without compromising cutting performance.

Helical angle and pitch: The helical angle refers to the angle of the cutting edge relative to the instrument’s long axis, while the pitch is the distance between two consecutive cutting edges when viewed laterally. Generally, the helical angle and pitch share an inverse relationship—an increase in helical angle corresponds to a decrease in pitch, and vice versa. Studies have shown that increasing the pitch or decreasing the helical angle of a file enhances its resistance to cyclic fatigue but reduces its resistance to torsional fatigue¹⁹. Additionally, these changes are associated with lower cutting efficiency ²⁰. It is important to note that the unwinding of rotary files after use results in an increased pitch and a decreased helical angle. These changes not only reduce cutting efficiency but also increase the file’s susceptibility to torsional fracture, particularly in tight or constricted canals.

Kinematics

While full reciprocation—equal clockwise and counterclockwise rotation—had been incorporated into rotary devices as early as the 1960s, the concept of partial reciprocation, involving unequal clockwise and counterclockwise rotation, was introduced to endodontics in 1985 by Dr. James Roane through the balanced force technique. This innovative technique, initially applied to hand instrumentation, was effective in maintaining the centering of stainless steel files within the canal ²¹. In 2008, Dr. Ghassan Yared adapted the concept to engine-driven instruments by investigating the cyclic fatigue resistance of a standard ProTaper^® F2 file in both continuous rotary and reciprocating motions ²². Building on this foundation, Dentsply Tulsa Dental Specialties introduced the WaveOne^® file system in 2011—one of the first to utilize reciprocating kinematics in a commercially available engine-driven file. Following the introduction of WaveOne^®, several other reciprocating file systems have been developed and are now widely available on the market. Research has demonstrated that reciprocating motion—particularly in the horizontal plane—offers significant advantages, including improved resistance to both cyclic and torsional fatigue ²³. Additionally, alternative kinematic approaches, such as the vertical oscillations used in the Self-Adjusting File (SAF) system, have been introduced, offering similar mechanical and clinical benefits²⁴.

Summary

The integration of metallurgy, geometry, and kinematics has resulted in the development of a wide variety of file systems, each with distinct properties. For instance, the WaveOne^® Gold file combines a heat-treated gold alloy rich in martensitic phase for enhanced flexibility, with reciprocating motion to maximize both cyclic fatigue resistance and cutting efficiency, leveraging the benefits of both advanced metallurgy and kinematics.

The era of just relying on one or two file systems to manage all cases is long gone. Today, with a wide range of files available – each offering distinct characteristics – clinicians have the advantage of selecting the most appropriate system tailored to the specific demands of each case. Nonetheless, it is essential to recognize that many of the files currently available on the market share similar core characteristics, with only subtle differences between them. A typical file selection in an endodontic practice will often include at least one file representing each of the following categories (glide path rotary files are not the subject of this article):

A thick or progressively tapered martensite-austenite file for shaping large canals
A thin or thick austenitic file for straight canals or retreatment cases
A thin martensitic file for negotiating curved canals
A 3D-adaptive file designed for C-shaped or anatomically wide canals

A wide canal may require a file with a greater taper for effective shaping, while a narrower canal is better suited for a file with a lower taper. In curved canals, a more martensitic file is preferred to minimize the risk of cyclic fatigue and canal transportation. Conversely, in straight but constricted canals, a slim yet more austenitic file may be more effective, offering increased resistance to unwinding and torsional fatigue fracture. Another file system that can be particularly useful in certain cases—such as c-shaped canals—is the so-called “3D” file. A notable example is a file utilizing Maxwire technology, which adapts to the canal’s shape and helps preserve its internal anatomy ²⁵.

When selecting a file within each category, it is important to consider design features such as cross-section, helical angle, and pitch, as each significantly influences the file’s mechanical behavior. For example, a file with a higher pitch generally offers greater resistance to cyclic fatigue but may be more vulnerable to torsional stress. Similarly, a triangular cross-section typically provides greater flexibility compared to a rectangular one.

The following table summarizes key file specifications and their relative effects on file performance:

	Higher cyclic fatigue resistance	Higher torsional fatigue resistance
Higher Martensite crystals	+
Higher thickness		+
Increased taper		+
Cross-section	Triangle, S-shaped, U-shaped	Rectangular, triple helix, convex triangle
Increased helical angle / reduced pitch	+
Reciprocation movement	+	+

Ultimately, it is essential to acknowledge the significant impact of the operator’s experience on the successful cleaning and shaping of the canal²⁶. It is well understood that it is the clinician—not the files themselves—who ultimately performs the treatment. It has also been shown that the outcome of root canal treatment depends on other significant factors, rather than the file choice.²⁷ Nevertheless, when properly selected, files used by a skilled operator become invaluable tools for delivering high-quality, efficient care that meets patients’ expectations.

References

Hülsmann M, Peters O.A, Dummer P.M. Mechanical preparation of root canals: shaping goals, techniques and means. Endodontic topics. 2005;1(10):30-76.
Frank AL. An evaluation of the Giromatic endodontic handpiece. Oral Surg Oral Med Oral Pathol 1967;24(3):419-421.
Grande N, Ahmed H, Cohen S, et al. Current assessment of reciprocation in endodontic preparation: A comprehensive review – Part I: Historical perspectives and current applications. Journal of endodontics 2015;41:1778-1783.
Walia HM, Brantley WA, Gerstein H. An initial investigation of the bending and torsional properties of Nitinol root canal files. J Endod 1988;14(7):346-351.
Gavini G, Santos MD, Caldeira CL, et al. Nickel-titanium instruments in endodontics: a concise review of the state of the art. Braz Oral Res 2018;32(suppl 1):e67.
Thompson SA. An overview of nickel-titanium alloys used in dentistry. Int Endod J 2000;33(4):297-310.
Drukteinis S, Peciuliene V, Bendinskaite R, et al. Shaping and Centering Ability, Cyclic Fatigue Resistance and Fractographic Analysis of Three Thermally Treated NiTi Endodontic Instrument Systems. Materials 2020;13(24):5823.
Esposito PT, Cunningham CJ. A comparison of canal preparation with nickel-titanium and stainless steel instruments. J Endod 1995;21(4):173-176.
Liang Y, Yue L. Evolution and development: engine-driven endodontic rotary nickel-titanium instruments. Int J Oral Sci 2022;14(1):12.
Shen Y, Zhou HM, Zheng YF, et al. Metallurgical characterization of controlled memory wire nickel-titanium rotary instruments. J Endod 2011;37(11):1566-1571.
Lukáš P, Šittner P, Lugovoy D, et al. In situ neutron diffraction studies of the R-phase transformation in the NiTi shape memory alloy. Applied Physics A 2002;74(1):s1121-s1123.
Yan L, Liu Y. Effect of Deformation Mode on the Wear Behavior of NiTi Shape Memory Alloys. Shape Memory and Superelasticity 2016;2(2):204-217.
Aparicio JA, S. PMM, Guerrero. APG, et al. Multimodal Evaluation of Three NiTi Rotary Systems: Clinical Simulation, Mechanical Testing, and Finite Element Analysis. Dentistry Journal 2025;13(368).
Alsofi L, Al-Marshadi M, AbuHaimed T, et al. Thermal behavior and cyclic fatigue resistance of three contemporary NiTi heat-treated single-file systems: metallurgical study. BMC Oral Health 2025;25(1):338.
Camps JJ, Pertot WJ. Relationship between file size and stiffness of stainless steel instruments. Endod Dent Traumatol 1994;10(6):260-263.
Oh SR, Chang SW, Lee Y, et al. A comparison of nickel-titanium rotary instruments manufactured using different methods and cross-sectional areas: ability to resist cyclic fatigue. Oral Surg Oral Med Oral Pathol Oral Radiol Endod 2010;109(4):622-628.
Versluis A, Kim HC, Lee W, et al. Flexural stiffness and stresses in nickel-titanium rotary files for various pitch and cross-sectional geometries. J Endod 2012;38(10):1399-1403.
Turpin YL, Chagneau F, Vulcain JM. Impact of two theoretical cross-sections on torsional and bending stresses of nickel-titanium root canal instrument models. J Endod 2000;26(7):414-417.
Baek SH, Lee CJ, Versluis A, et al. Comparison of torsional stiffness of nickel-titanium rotary files with different geometric characteristics. J Endod 2011;37(9):1283-1286.
Roda-Casanova V, Pérez-González A, Zubizarreta-Macho A, et al. Influence of Cross-Section and Pitch on the Mechanical Response of NiTi Endodontic Files under Bending and Torsional Conditions-A Finite Element Analysis. J Clin Med 2022;11(9).
Roane JB, Sabala CL, Duncanson MG, Jr. The “balanced force” concept for instrumentation of curved canals. Journal of Endodontics 1985;11(5):203-211.
Yared GM, Bou Dagher FE, Machtou P. Influence of rotational speed, torque and operator’s proficiency on ProFile failures. International Endodontic Journal 2001;34(1):47-53.
Pedullà E, Grande NM, Plotino G, et al. Influence of continuous or reciprocating motion on cyclic fatigue resistance of 4 different nickel-titanium rotary instruments. J Endod 2013;39(2):258-261.
Singla MG, Kumar H, Satija R. Shaping ability of ProTaper Gold, One Curve, and Self-Adjusting File systems in severely curved canals: A cone-beam computed tomography study. J Conserv Dent 2021;24(3):271-277.
Marques JLC, Freire LG, Scardini IL, et al. Shaping efficiency of XP-endo shaper and Mtwo instruments in long oval root canals: A micro-CT study. Aust Endod J 2021;47(3):624-630.
Burry JC, Stover S, Eichmiller F, et al. Outcomes of Primary Endodontic Therapy Provided by Endodontic Specialists Compared with Other Providers. J Endod 2016;42(5):702-705.
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As we move into November, I’m reminded that gratitude isn’t just a feeling—it’s a practice. It’s something we express through action, connection, and commitment to one another, to our specialty and to our patients. In that spirit, I want to pause this month to recognize and thank two groups that embody what makes our specialty so strong: the many AAE volunteers who give their time and talents, and the Foundation for Endodontics, whose work continues to uplift our profession in lasting ways.

The Power of Volunteerism

Each and every day, I am reminded at the heart of the AAE are hundreds of members who serve on committees, task forces, working groups, and the Board of Directors—each lending their unique perspective and expertise to help the organization grow and adapt. These are busy endodontists and educators who take on extra work because they believe in something bigger than themselves: the collective progress of our specialty.

AAE volunteers guide initiatives that touch every aspect of what we do—from shaping clinical resources and educational programming, to refining our communications and public awareness efforts, to ensuring that our policies reflect the evolving realities of endodontic practice. They help us stay nimble and forward-thinking in a time when health care, technology, and patient expectations are rapidly changing.

Just recently, I attended the American Dental Association’s (ADA) House of Delegates meetings in Washington, D.C. Surrounded by nearly 25 AAE member–volunteer delegates to the ADA, we testified on behalf of our specialty—standing up for what is right for endodontics and for our organization. And the ADA heard us. They accepted our recommendations on nearly every resolution relevant to endodontics.

This kind of work often happens behind the scenes, but its impact is everywhere. It’s evident in the advocacy that keeps endodontics visible and respected in Washington. It’s reflected in the exceptional continuing education that sets us apart from other specialties and equips our members to practice at the highest standards. It’s visible in our compassionate public outreach that helps patients understand the value of saving their natural teeth. And it’s recognized throughout the ADA and other specialty organizations as a testament to our unwavering commitment—to endodontics, to our members, and to the patients we serve.

To every committee member, reviewer, mentor, speaker, and leader who contributes your time and expertise—thank you. Your service not only strengthens the AAE, but it also strengthens the bonds that make our community unique.

Your dedication reminds me daily that leadership is never a solo endeavor. Every success we achieve as an organization is made possible by the insight, commitment, and generosity of our volunteers. You help me every day to lead more effectively, think more broadly, and stay connected to the very heart of our specialty. For that, and for all you do, I’m deeply grateful.

The Foundation: Gratitude That Gives Back

The same spirit of selflessness and shared purpose is woven throughout the work of the Foundation for Endodontics. For more than half a century, the Foundation has stood as a tangible expression of our profession’s gratitude—transforming generosity into real outcomes that benefit research, education, and access to patient care.

Through its research grants, the Foundation fuels scientific discovery that keeps endodontics at the forefront of dental medicine. Those studies don’t just expand our knowledge—they inform the treatments we provide every day and drive innovations that make endodontic therapy more predictable, effective and comfortable for our patients.

Through educational support, the Foundation ensures that endodontic educators and departments have the resources they need to train the next generation. By helping sustain faculty positions and expanding opportunities for residents with grants and awards, the Foundation safeguards the future of endodontic education and keeps our specialty visible, vibrant and thriving in academic settings.

And through its access to care initiatives, the Foundation empowers endodontists to serve their-own local and global communities—providing tooth-saving treatment to patients who might otherwise face extraction or chronic pain. These projects are a profound reminder that our skills can be life-changing, and that oral health is an integral part of overall well-being.

Every one of these efforts—every grant awarded, every student supported, every patient relieved of pain—is a reflection of your collective generosity and the Foundation’s unwavering mission.

A Community Worth Celebrating

When I think about the AAE’s many accomplishments over the past year, one thing is clear: none of it happens without the people who care deeply about our profession. The volunteers who give their time. The Foundation that channels our collective goodwill into action, and the members who show up for patients, students, and colleagues with integrity and compassion.

Together, you embody what it means to belong to a professional family that not only advances endodontics but also uplifts everyone connected to it. As we enter this season of thanksgiving, please know how deeply grateful I am for all you do. Together, we are not only saving teeth—we are changing lives.

As artificial intelligence (AI) continues to transform how organizations communicate, the American Association of Endodontists (AAE) is setting the pace for its use across association management and healthcare communications. From content creation and social media strategy to research support and member engagement, AAE staff are integrating AI into daily workflows in creative, responsible, and forward-looking ways.

This commitment to innovation aligns with the recently released Dental Clinics of North America issue, Modern Endodontics: Focus on AI (October 28). While that publication explores AI’s clinical and ethical dimensions, AAE’s own work demonstrates how technology can streamline operations, enhance storytelling, and strengthen member resources.

Putting AI to Work Across Departments

AAE’s Marketing and Communications team has been at the forefront of applying AI to improve both efficiency and creativity. Staff use AI tools to develop newsletter content, refine social media messaging, and generate compelling visuals and outreach ideas—all while ensuring accuracy and consistency with AAE’s mission and tone. These applications help the team reach new audiences, respond faster to member needs, and deliver data-informed insights that guide communication strategy.

An Award-Winning Custom GPT

One of AAE’s most successful applications is its custom-built generative AI tool, developed for the Save Your Tooth Month campaign. Trained on official AAE messaging, creative assets, and patient education materials, the custom GPT assists members in producing campaign-aligned social posts, emails, and patient-facing materials in seconds.

Originally designed to support members during the May campaign, the tool now serves as a year-round resource for endodontists looking to promote tooth preservation and the importance of seeing a specialist. The innovation earned recognition for helping practices save time while maintaining high-quality, on-brand communications.

Strengthening Accuracy in the AI Ecosystem

Beyond internal use, AAE is also focused on how AI platforms represent endodontic care to the public. Staff regularly monitor responses from systems like ChatGPT, Google Gemini, Copilot, Perplexity, and Claude to ensure that common questions—such as “Are root canals safe?”—are answered accurately and reflect evidence-based information.

To reinforce trustworthy content in AI training data, AAE continues to publish myth-busting materials, secure coverage in reputable media outlets, and collaborate with partners to elevate the visibility of endodontists and their expertise. These proactive efforts help ensure that AI tools share the truth about root canal treatment and reinforce the value of specialist care.

Looking Ahead

AAE’s integration of AI reflects a broader organizational goal: to use technology not just to keep up, but to lead. By applying AI in thoughtful, mission-driven ways, AAE is empowering its staff—and its members—to work smarter, communicate stronger, and stay ahead in an evolving digital landscape.

AAE President Dr. Steven Katz earned major media attention in October, reaching millions across national outlets. He was featured in Good Housekeeping’s “Should You Floss Your Teeth Before or After You Brush?” and quoted in The Washington Post’s “Brushing Before or After Breakfast”, sharing expert oral health advice with readers worldwide. On TV, he appeared on Daytime Chicago on WGN-TV and News 5 Cleveland (WEWS), highlighting the importance of saving natural teeth and offering tips for good oral health while still enjoying Halloween sweets, and touting endodontists all the while.

Click below to read a PDF of the article. You can also read it on the Washington Post with a subscription.

By Elisabeth Lisican

When Dental Clinics of North America approached Dr. Sami Chogle for a topic idea, he knew exactly where to steer the conversation: artificial intelligence. What began as a bold pitch has now evolved into a full-fledged special issue—Modern Endodontics: Focus on AI—edited by Drs. Chogle, Mark Desrosiers, and Asma Khan.

In an interview with the AAE, the endodontic editorial trio reflected on the process of shaping this forward-looking issue, the urgency of AI integration in dentistry, and the unique opportunity for endodontics to lead.

What’s Inside the Issue:

Foundational Technologies and Tools
The opening chapters provide a broad overview of current technologies assisting endodontists and highlight diagnostic innovations related to periapical radiolucencies (PARLs), root fractures, and external cervical resorption (ECR).
Advances in Imaging, Robotics, and Prognosis
From 3D imaging and surgical guides to robotic integration and AI’s role in predicting treatment outcomes, several articles examine how intelligent systems are enhancing precision and decision-making.
Practice Management and Ethics
A deep dive into how AI is influencing the business and ethical dimensions of endodontic care, with attention to patient privacy, professional responsibility, and emerging best practices.
Endodontic Education Reimagined
Two chapters explore how virtual reality, augmented reality, and AI-based simulation are transforming how endodontic skills are taught and learned—both at the student and continuing education levels.
Looking Ahead
The final two chapters take a bold step into the future, considering what’s next—and what lies beyond the horizon—for endodontics as AI tools continue to evolve and embed themselves into clinical practice.

An Idea Whose Time Had Come

“I’ve worked with DCNA in the past… back in 2012 when things were warming up with regenerative endodontics,” Dr. Chogle explained. “That was my cue as well in terms of AI—seeing the increase in publications, the interest in dental applications.”

Although the idea was initially met with some skepticism, the editors quickly demonstrated the depth and breadth of AI’s relevance to the specialty.

“I think we convinced them that there was enough potential for us to create an issue solely based on artificial intelligence within [endodontics],” said Dr. Chogle. “Of course, once the idea was on the table, I had to bring in the real brains behind the whole issue.”

Why AI Matters to Endodontics

Each editor emphasized that the special issue is about more than just trend-following—it’s about preparing the specialty for transformative change.

Dr. Desrosiers noted, “AI is big for everything, not just endodontics… this is going to make our specialty look good … as a specialty, we’re at the forefront.”

Dr. Khan added, “As endodontists, as educators, we really need to educate ourselves… We need to play an active role in how these applications are developed, how they are used in our offices.”

AI’s rapid growth means the specialty can’t afford to wait: “It’s sort of insidious, creeping into a lot of dentistry and non-dental fields as well,” said Dr. Chogle. “Hopefully this helps readers understand that it’s already here.”

Addressing Misconceptions

One key goal of the issue is to clarify what AI is—and what it’s not.

“AI is not a threat, or should not be a threat,” said Dr. Khan. “It’s really a good tool to help us serve our patients better.”

She advocated for reframing the conversation: “We should start thinking in terms of augmented intelligence… it augments or helps the endodontist. It is not meant to replace endodontists.”

Dr. Desrosiers cautioned against assuming AI is ready-made: “It is a tool that has to be used with caution… Certainly right now it’s the bleeding edge, but it is changing so quickly.”

AI in Education: Learning and Teaching in Real Time

As educators, all three editors acknowledged the unique challenge of teaching a rapidly evolving subject.

“We’re learning it and we’re learning how to teach it at the same time,” said Dr. Desrosiers. “While this is challenging, the potential is very promising.”

Dr. Khan outlined how AI is already changing education at every level—from didactic lectures to simulation labs to continuing education. “The teaching and learning experience is richer and more personalized,” she said.

Dr. Chogle offered a glimpse into the future: “We had a resident use AI and augmented reality to practice a procedure on a virtual patient—the same patient they were going to see. They practiced the surgery virtually, and then did it.” He called it “a good teaching tool for residents to be able to practice before they get into the surgical field.”

Cross-Disciplinary Collaboration and Editorial Insights

While most authors featured in the publication are endodontists, a few chapters brought in contributors from other disciplines—particularly for ethics and practice management. These chapters had a lasting impact on the editorial team.

“The ethics chapter really opened my eyes,” said Dr. Desrosiers. “It’s a lot broader than I first thought.” Dr. Desrosiers also said he was impressed by contributor Kim FitzSimmons’ (AAE’s Chief Marketing & Communications Officer) chapter, “Endodontic Practice Management.”

“I was really impressed with how far ahead of the curve she was compared to what I had perceived,” he said.

Dr. Khan added, “It was fun to collaborate with different disciplines. It was an enriching experience.”

No Favorites—But Lots to Be Excited About

When asked if they had a favorite chapter, the editors were unanimous: every piece adds value.

“Even if you tried [to pick], there was a good amount of overlap,” said Dr. Chogle. “It’s like a complete monograph.”

The contributors also represented a range of career stages—from residents to veteran educators—which added depth and variety.

AI’s Potential and the Role of the AAE

The editors offered a glimpse of what excites them most about AI’s potential. Dr. Khan sees AI as a bridge between biology and technology: “It could evaluate a patient’s individual factors and help us determine the best prognosis.”

Dr. Chogle emphasized the potential in practice management and patient communication, citing an AI-powered video that could translate practice information into multiple languages: “A very small aspect, but it’s how it’s incorporating into almost everything we’re doing.”

As the issue prepares for publication, the editors also are looking forward to the AAE remaining engaged and proactive.

“This is a first step,” said Dr. Chogle. “But it does need a proactive and consistent effort that will help us stay on top of AI incorporation into dentistry.”

The issue, “Modern Endodontics: Focus on AI,” will be available in print and digitally later this month via DCNA. Learn more at https://www.dental.theclinics.com/.

About the Editors:

Mark B. Desrosiers, DMD, currently serves as Secretary of the AAE Board of Directors and teaches part-time at the Boston University School of Dental Medicine. He is fascinated by the technological changes in our specialty both in materials and Artificial Intelligence. His “free” time is spent traveling with his wife and visiting his children and grandchildren.

Dr. Asma Khan is a tenured Professor at UT San Antonio. She received her dental degree from India, her PhD in Neuroscience from the University of Maryland, and her Certificate in Endodontics from UT Health San Antonio. She currently serves on the Council of Scientific Affairs of the American Dental Association and is a member of the Scientific Advisory Board for the Journal of Endodontics. Her research interests include the use of AI to improve clinical practice and the development of new diagnostics and analgesics.

Elisabeth Lisican is the AAE’s assistant director of communications & publishing.

On October 16, the global endodontic community will come together to celebrate World Endodontic Day—a day dedicated to raising awareness about the specialty of endodontics and its vital role in preserving natural teeth.

Origins of World Endodontic Day

The concept was first proposed by Dr. Gopi Krishna, President Elect of the International Federation of Endodontic Associations (IFEA), during the World Endodontic Congress in Chile in 2022. His idea of “having a common annual day of celebration for Endodontics globally” was unanimously approved by member societies and associations. We caught up with him recently to dig into the origins and meanings behind the special endodontic holiday.

Why October 16?

After much deliberation, IFEA chose October 16 to honor two milestones. First, it marks the birthdate of Dr. Louis Grossman, one of the foundational fathers of modern endodontics. Second, it commemorates the month when IFEA was formally registered. As the organization explains, “we choose October 16th as a day to dedicate and commemorate the world of Endodontics”.

Global Participation

Today, 49 national endodontic associations and societies—including the American Association of Endodontists—are official partners in celebrating the day. The list spans every continent:

Australian Society of Endodontology (Australia)

Bangladesh Endodontic Society (Bangladesh)

Belgian Association for Endodontology and Traumatology (Belgium)

Brazilian Endodontics Society (Brazil)

Canadian Academy of Endodontics (Canada)

Chilean Endodontic Society (Chile)

Colombian Endodontic Association (Colombia)

Croatian Society of Endodontology (Croatia)

Czech Endodontic Society (Czech)

Egyptian Association of Endodontists (Egypt)

Association For Endodontics For Ecuador (Ecuador)

Finnish Endodontic Society (Finland)

French Society of Endodontics (France)

Academia de Endodontia de Guatemala (Guatemala)

German Society of Endodontology and Traumatology (Germany)

Greece: Hellenic Society of Endodontics (Greece)

Hong Kong Endodontic Society (Hongkong)

Indian Endodontic Society (India)

Indonesian Endodontic Association (Indonesia)

Iranian Association of Endodontists (Iran)

Iraqi Endodontic Society (Iraq)

Israel Endodontic Society (Israel)

Italian Endodontic Society (Italy)

Japan Endodontic Association (Japan)

Jordanian Endodontic Society (Jordan)

Korean Academy of Endodontics (Korea)

Lebanese Society of Endodontology (Lebanon)

Lithuanian Society of Endodontology (Lithuania)

Malaysian Endodontic Society (Malaysia)

Mexico Endodontic Association (Mexico)

Moroccan Academy Of Endodontics (Morocco)

Netherland Association for Endodontics (Netherland)

New Zealand Society of Endodontics (New Zealand)

Pakistan Association of Operative Dentistry & Endodontic (Pakistan)

Peruvian Endodontic Society (Peru)

Portuguese Society of Endodontology (Portugal)

Endodontic Society of the Philippines (Philippines)

Saudi Endodontic Society (Saudi Arabia)

Spanish Association of Endodontics (Spain)

Swiss Society for Endodontology (Switzerland)

Academy of Endodontology R.O.C. (Taiwan)

Thai Endodontic Association (Thailand)

Turkish Endodontic Society (Turkey)

Emirates Endodontic Society (UAE)

Ukrainian Endodontic Association (Ukraine)

British Endodontic Society (UK)

Uruguay Endodontic Society (Uruguay)

American Association of Endodontists (USA)

Venezuelan Society of Endodontics (Venezuela)

Raising Public Awareness

While endodontists and dentists already conduct numerous conferences and meetings worldwide, World Endodontic Day is unique in its outward focus. According to IFEA, “we do not have a combined global platform aimed towards the public in improving their awareness regarding prevention, treatment and preservation of natural dentition. This day would bring public focus on the relevance of endodontics in improving the quality of general health of an individual”.

2025 Celebrations

This year, IFEA is hosting an online Global Endodontic Symposium by eminent academicians Prof. Jose F. Siqueira Jr and Dr. Jeeraphat Jantarat that telecast online for the benefit of all dentists and students present in the 49 member countries of IFEA.

“We recommend national societies to conduct public awareness campaigns in the form of social media campaigns, print and radio awareness interviews to sensitize the general public regarding our specialty.”

How Members Can Participate

Individual endodontists and AAE members can join in by celebrating in their own practices—educating patients about modern advances that make root canal treatment more predictable and painless. As IFEA notes, “we are recommending dentists and endodontists to celebrate this day in their practices by sharing information about newer advances in technology and materials”.

Inspiration from Past Events

Previous celebrations have been ambitious and inspiring. For example, the Indian Endodontic Society organized a nationwide campaign spanning 22 cities and broadcast in 12 languages, with a unified message: “Endodontists are dental specialists in saving natural teeth”.

Looking Ahead

IFEA will conduct its 2028 World Endodontic Congress in New York in partnership with the AAE in 2028. Members are encouraged to save the dates Sept. 13-17, 2028.

The Key Takeaway

The message of World Endodontic Day is simple yet powerful: “Endodontics helps us preserve your natural teeth for a healthy smile and a healthy life!!”

Learn more about IFEA at ifeaendo.org.

Last year, I attended my first Educators Conference. Go figure, by chance more than design, I found myself in a room full of educators. ENDOPALOOZA, as we fondly call it, is the joint gathering of the Educators Conference and the APICES Conference for residents, held in conjunction with one another annually.

My presence in the Educators Conference wasn’t planned. I had been invited to APICES in my role as President-Elect, with no speaking responsibilities—just an opportunity to observe. On that first morning, before the residents arrived, I wandered into the Educators session. It was a lively conversation among Pre-Doctoral Directors, complete with a ball-tossing exercise where whomever caught the ball had to answer the moderator’s question. Within minutes of sitting down, the ball landed in my hands.

I don’t remember the exact question, but I remember how I began my response: “I’m not really an educator, but…” That’s when my colleague and friend, Dr. Mark Byron of West Virginia University, quickly interrupted me. Though I teach at WVU just one day a month—six to eight times a year at best—he looked at me and said: “Yes, you are an educator, and we are happy to have you whenever you can come.”

That message was loud and clear—not just from Dr. Byron, but from the entire room. Almost every institution is in need of endodontists to teach. And any endodontist willing to give their time, even in small amounts, is both welcomed and needed.

A Shortage We Can’t Ignore

Fast forward to this past August, when ENDOPALOOZA 2025 took us to steamy New Orleans for the 22^nd annual APICES Conference. This year’s Educators Conference also welcomed department chairs and, as happens every other year, invited our corporate partners to participate.

Now attending in my role as President, I had speaking responsibilities in nearly every session. The first group I addressed were our corporate stakeholders—companies deeply invested in the health of our specialty. Their chief concern mirrored what I had heard the year before: Where do we find more educators?

In the Educators Workshop, the refrain was the same: There is a significant shortage of endodontist educators at every level, in nearly every institution. President-Elect Dr. Craig Noblett had proposed a survey to identify unmet needs. The results confirmed what many of us suspected: Most institutions have open positions for full-time pre-doctoral directors, graduate program chairs, and department heads. Some institutions face vacancies in all three.

Inspiring the Next Generation

The next day, I addressed our residents. I spoke about the value of the AAE, the importance of belonging to a strong professional organization, and the many ways we support members at every stage of their careers. I reminded them that the AAE’s strength depends on the leadership of our younger members. But I also emphasized something even more fundamental: the responsibility to give back.

To give back to our profession, to our Foundation, and—most importantly—to our students. Because if we fail to provide robust endodontic education at every level, if we lose the ability to shape the narrative and convey the importance of our specialty, then we risk losing endodontics itself.

A Clear Path Forward

I wish I could offer a simple solution. I cannot. There is no easy fix. The systemic issues of funding and institutional politics are real and will not be solved overnight. But what we can do—what each of us must do—is address the challenge personally.

Most of us can volunteer a half day or a few days here and there. And if you think back to your own training, chances are it was the volunteer faculty who made the deepest impression. Practicing endodontists who may not have considered themselves “teachers,” but who showed up, shared their experiences, and helped shape us into the professionals we are today. They modeled the realities of practice, offered wisdom beyond textbooks, and shaped our professional identities.

Our Turn to Step Up

The future of endodontic education doesn’t rest solely on full-time faculty or department chairs. It rests with every member of our specialty. Each of us has benefitted from those who gave their time to teach us, and now we carry both the privilege—and the responsibility—to do the same for the next generation.

I no longer say, “I’m not really an educator.” Because being an educator isn’t defined by a title or a contract. It’s defined by the willingness to share what you know, to mentor those coming after you, and to safeguard the future of our specialty.

So I leave you with this: Be the person who shows up. If each of us contributes to the greater good of the profession, together we can shape the brightest future for endodontics.

Contributed by Luke Fehrs

If the title of this piece has your head spinning already, you’re not alone. Insurance jargon can be convoluted and confusing. Add to that that your real job, running a dental or medical practice means juggling patient care, staff, and operations, you really can’t be expected to know all these terms, too. Unfortunately, you can’t afford not to read the fine print in your insurance policy (or lease) because one overlooked detail could leave you with a huge bill if disaster strikes. A fire, flood, or other property loss can put your practice on hold. The right coverage can help you reopen quickly, while the wrong coverage can leave you rebuilding on your own dime.

Two critical types of coverage every commercial tenant should understand are Business Personal Property (BPP) and Improvements and Betterments (I&B).

Business Personal Property Coverage for Dental & Medical Practices

Picture this… If you unscrewed every piece of dental equipment from the floor, unbolted the chairs, cut the roof off of the building, and turned it upside down—everything that fell out would go with you to the next office. That’s your business personal property.

BPP includes your movable equipment, furniture, computers, and supplies. In a dental office, that means dental chairs, x-ray machines, tools, IT equipment, and anything else you can take with you.

The coverage amount should be based on the direct replacement cost of these items. You can determine this by looking at purchase agreements, supplier quotes, or industry equipment lists.

What Is Improvements and Betterments Insurance for Commercial Tenants?

Now think about the parts of your space you can’t just pick up and move: the walls, flooring, light fixtures, cabinetry, and built-in features that make your office functional. That’s what Improvements and Betterments coverage protects.

If you removed all your movable property and a fire destroyed the building, you (as the tenant) would still be responsible for rebuilding the interior in the event of a total loss.

In most cases, a landlord will only restore the building’s “shell.” This means the four walls, a ceiling, and a floor. You would walk back into a barren shell and have to reconstruct everything else yourself.

Valuing I&B coverage is less straightforward than BPP. It’s often estimated based on local construction costs per square foot. A rough starting point might be $250/sq. ft. at the time of this writing, but that number climbs significantly in large metro areas.

Avoiding Disputes with Landlords Over Insurance Responsibilities

Many disputes between tenants and landlords after a property loss happen because of unclear expectations. Both sides often assume the other will pay for the interior rebuild, which can lead to costly delays and frustration.

It’s also becoming more common for landlords to specify in the lease agreement that tenants are required to carry coverage for improvements and betterments, precisely to avoid this kind of finger pointing.

Why Your Lease Agreement Is the Key to Proper Coverage

Your lease is the ultimate guide to your insurance responsibilities. It spells out exactly what you’re on the hook for if your space is damaged or destroyed.

Always have an attorney review your lease before you sign and before you purchase coverage. Insurance agents can give you a general understanding of what’s needed, but they can’t interpret your contract with legal authority.

Here’s a business property protection checklist you may find helpful:

Business Property Protection Checklist

Business Personal Property (BPP)

☐ List all movable items you own: equipment, furniture, computers, supplies.

☐ Calculate your replacement cost (use purchase agreements, supplier quotes, or inventory tools).

☐ Confirm with your insurance agent that your BPP coverage limit matches today’s replacement value.

Improvements & Betterments (I&B)

☐ Identify fixed interior features you’ve added, like walls, flooring, lighting, cabinetry.

☐ Get a cost-per-square-foot rebuild estimate from your local contractors.

☐ Make sure your I&B coverage matches the full rebuild cost, and not just what’s in your budget.

Lease Agreement

☐ Review your lease for clauses on rebuild responsibility.

☐ Confirm what your landlord’s policy covers (usually the “shell” only).

☐ Have an attorney review it before you sign or renew.

Annual Review

☐ Recalculate equipment values annually, because things do change in price.

☐ Update your I&B estimates for inflation and construction cost changes.

☐ Adjust your coverage whenever you renovate or add major equipment.

Understanding the difference between Business Personal Property and Improvements and Betterments coverage, and making sure both are valued correctly, can save you from expensive surprises. The goal after a loss should be to get back to seeing patients quickly, not arguing over who pays for the drywall.

Do you have a question about business insurance?

We have answers! Contact us today for a no-obligation conversation with one of our experienced business insurance team members.

About Treloar & Heisel

Treloar & Heisel, an EPIC Company, is a financial services provider to dental and medical professionals across the country. We assist thousands of clients from residency through retirement and strive to deliver the highest level of service with custom-tailored advice and a strong national network. For more information, visit us at treloaronline.com.

Luke Fehrs is Account Executive, Treloar & Heisel, LLC,domiciled in PA.
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