Restorative preferences and choices for endodontically treated teeth: a representative survey in China

Abstract

Abstract Background The optimal protocol for restoring endodontically treated teeth (ETT) remains unclear due to various considerations such as coronal restoration type, and the amount of remaining coronal structure. This study aims to compare Chinese dental practitioners with different training backgrounds in their approach to ETT restoration and their preferences and opinions on using endocrowns. Methods Attitudes and preferences of Chinese dental practitioners towards the restoration of ETT were explored in this survey study. Data were collected using an online questionnaire and analyzed by the Chi-square test and multiple response frequencies analysis. P-values less than 0.05 were deemed statistically significant. Results A total of 400 responses were collected, including 230 females (57.50%) and 170 males (42.50%). The main consideration for restoration strategy was residual tooth structure, according to 26.11%. For ETT with four residual walls, 40.75% chose a full crown, while for ETT with one residual wall, 61.75% opted for a post-and-core system and only 14.50% chose an endocrown. 56.25% of participants had used endocrown in clinical practice. Endocrown was preferred in cases of insufficient occlusal space (41.88%). 63.75% considered endocrown a potential alternative treatment for ETT. A strong correlation between continuous education, clinical experience, and the recognition and usage of endocrowns (p < 0.05). Conclusions The amount of remaining tooth structure is crucial in determining the optimal restorative approach. Endocrown emerges as promising, particularly for patients with insufficient occlusal space. However, a comparatively low adoption rate of endocrowns among younger, less educated, and less experienced participants emphasizes the need for incorporating endocrown into dental curricula or continuing education programs.