Provider perceptions of treatment options for immature permanent teeth

The purpose of this study was to survey endodontists and pediatric dentists on the use of apexification and regenerative endodontics for the treatment of immature permanent teeth. We surveyed pediatric dentists (n=1941) and endodontists (n=1615) in four geographically and demographically diverse states- North Carolina, New York, Texas and California. The surveys were created using qualtrics and teleform and distributed using the Salant and Dillman method. Data was analyzed using chi square, linear and multinominal regression. 574 Endodontists (32.9% success rate) and 526 pediatric dentists (27.1% response rate) responded to the surveys. Both endodontists and pediatric dentists reported that they occasionally to rarely diagnose and treat patients with pulpal necrosis. Of the 43.3% of pediatric dentists who do not refer, 24% indicated that they perform only apexification. Predictability of outcome (p<.01), continued root development (p=0.01) and apical closure (p=0.01) significantly influence the decision to choose one treatment option for both specialties.