A Survey into Challenges and the Need for Heating Element Technology in Root Canal Procedures

Abstract

: Root Canal Treatment (RCT) is one of the most common endodontic clinical procedures performed in the field of dentistry amounting to almost 25 million performed every year. It is thus essential for endodontists to ensure best practices. However, through a recent survey, it has been observed endodontists resort to supplemental methods and protocols during procedures due to the scarcity of precision devices in the market. This not only compromises sound practices but also elevates the risk of operational failures & additional infections at the cost of the patient. Despite this deviation, the survey further highlights that touch and heat devices offer better stability, precision, and safety. This paper sets out to explore the ongoing challenges faced by endodontists in this field particularly in the methods to cut Gutta-percha and seal the canal and establish the need for heating element technology in such procedures.