Melissa Drum, D.D.S., M.S.: No financial relationships to disclose
Protocols and standards in root canal treatment should always allow for the ability of the operator to function in context, always practicing within a legal standard of care. The context for endodontists will change as knowledge and technology create new pathways to improve patient outcomes and become tools for communication between stakeholders, including peer professionals and patients. The utilization of needle delivery of anesthetics and medication in dentistry is universal. Unfortunately, improper utilization of needle delivery in dentistry can have serious and injurious outcomes in patient care. This presentation will discuss and consider the untoward events that can occur in the use of needle delivery of solutions and pastes in the practice and delivery of endodontic care.
Learning Objectives:
Recognize the advantages of imaging technologies in identifying key neurovascular structures and their proximity to the root canal systems of teeth.
Appreciate the hydraulic outcomes of common syringe methodologies and their potential for injury and mishaps
Identify safe protocols for avoiding extra-radicular overfill of the root canal space or confined tissues spaces using needle irrigation or paste delivery
