Incomplete endodontic therapyis necessary when a tooth is deemed unsuitable for restoration due to structural or other limitations. This procedure is particularly useful for patients with severely damaged teeth that cannot be restored but require temporary management to prevent complications. For example, a patient with a fractured molar may require incomplete endodontic therapy to manage symptoms until extraction or replacement.
The primary benefit of incomplete endodontic therapy is its ability to prevent further complications, such as infection or pain, while temporizing the tooth for future extraction or replacement. By addressing the issue promptly, clinicians can alleviate symptoms and improve the patient’s comfort. This level of intervention improves the likelihood of successful outcomes, particularly in cases of compromised teeth. Additionally, incomplete therapy provides time for planning alternative treatments.
For oral and maxillofacial surgeons, incomplete endodontic therapy requires clearly communicating the prognosis to the patient and planning for alternative treatments if needed. Surgeons should ensure that the tooth is stabilized to prevent further complications, such as abscess formation or systemic infection. By incorporating incomplete therapy into the treatment plan, surgeons can ensure better outcomes for the patient.
