General Dentist's Knowledge and Attitude Towards Non-Surgical Endodontic Retreatment in Tunisia: A Cross-Sectional Study.

Abstract

Introduction: Root canal retreatment is carried out in cases where previous endodontic therapies failed and involves the removal of root canal filling materials, followed by cleaning, shaping, and obturating of the canals.

Aims: : The objective of this study was to collect information regarding attitudes, methods, and materials employed during the non-surgical endodontic retreatment (NSER) by general dentists working in Sousse Governorate, Tunisia.

Materials and methods: A descriptive cross-sectional survey was conducted among 147 general dentists working in the Sousse Governorate, Tunisia, from May to November 2021. Data were collected by sending a structured questionnaire to the dental practitioners through email. All the data were analyzed by using the SPSS 10 computer software.

Results: A total of 96 dentists responded to this survey. The response rate was 63.5%, with a female predominance (53.2.3%). 81.2% of the respondents performed at least one non-surgical endodontic retreatment (NSER) weekly. Our study revealed that the mandibular first molar is the tooth that most often requires endodontic retreatment (83.5%). Half of the participants never used the rubber dam during this procedure. Moreover, the majority of respondents (61.9%) simultaneously used manual files and rotary nickel-titanium instruments for root canal desobturation. Most of the dentists (69.57%) systematically use solvents during root canal desobturation.

Conclusion: Our survey highlights that the majority of general dentists have adequate knowledge about endodontic retreatment. Nevertheless, dentists are yet to start the application of these newer strategies towards the management of endodontic failures.