Preference for Postendodontic Restoration for Fractured Anterior Teeth: A Questionnairebased Cross-sectional Study among Dentists in Maharashtra, India

Introduction: One of the common dilemmas faced by today’s clinicians is the management of structurally and aesthetically compromised endodontically treated teeth due to various treatment options available. There is no one factor which is the sole determinant for treatment planning. And there are various parameters contributing to the long-term success of a postendodontic restoration, especially in a fractured anterior tooth.

Aim: This study is aimed to investigate the preference for postendodontic restoration for fractured anterior teeth with respect to the tooth structure and aesthetics.

Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted in the Department of Conservative Dentistry and Endodontics, Government Dental College and Hospital, Nagpur, Maharashtra, India, from August 2021 to December 2021 among 150 clinicians in Maharashtra. A validated questionnaire containing 17 close-ended questions was given to the participants which ascertained their treatment choices, the importance of preserving the tooth structure, aesthetics and the consideration given to the physical properties while choosing the material and planning the treatment. Data obtained from the survey were statistically analysed by the Chi-square test.

Results: The mean age of the participants was 30.25±9.08 years. Among the 150 participants, postgraduates were 60 (40%) followed by general dentists 38 (25.3%), endodontists 36 (24%) and other specialists 16 (10.7%). Out of total, 82 (54.7%) preferred composites when more than 50% of the tooth structure remained. Crowns increased the longevity of the tooth according to 50 (83.3%) postgraduates. Among them, 28 (77.8%) endodontists opted for IPS Emax crowns over zirconia veneer for better aesthetics, 71 (47.3%) preferred glass fibre posts and 113 (75.3%) preferred ideal ferrule for better fracture resistance. Reattachment of the fragment was also a preferred option in all groups.

Conclusion: A 77.8% of the endodontists preferred IPS Emax crowns while 71.1% of the general dentists preferred zirconia veneers. Good awareness was seen among endodontists regarding method, patient preferences and aesthetics, very good awareness in materials and excellent awareness in treatment choices. More awareness is needed among general dentists, postgraduates, and other specialists in terms of treatment methods.