167 - Barriers & Trends in Pediatric Endodontic Treatments by Endodontists

Barriers and Trends in Pediatric Endodontic Treatments by Endodontists

Zamani A, Kerins CA, Umorin M, Sadrkhani M (Texas A&M University School of Dentistry, Dallas, TX)

Purpose: To identify barriers faced by endodontists in providing effective endodontic treatment to pediatric patients aged 6–18.

Methods: Attitudes of endodontists towards treating the pediatric patients were assessed with an anonymous survey. The survey was set up in Qualtrics and emailed to 419 of active members of Connection forum of American Association of Endodontists. The survey consisted of 25 questions about endodontist’s demographic and practice information, pediatric patient selection criteria, pediatric behavior management, financial factors of treatments, and treatment choices.

Results: The survey was open for two months. The response rate was 24% and 84 properly completed surveys were used for analysis. Categorical regression of accepted comorbidities on board certification and length of practice revealed that length of practice had a positive effect on acceptance of pediatric patients with uncontrolled asthma (P = .0025), autism with comorbidities like seizures (P = .011), and uncontrolled diabetes (P = .002). Length of practice had a positive effect on the frequency of conscious sedation of pediatric patients both under (P = .00384) and over (P = .029) 12-years old. Pediatric training had a positive effect on the frequency of pediatric referrals (P = .039).

Conclusions: Behavior management and presence of pre-existing medical conditions are barriers commonly faced by the surveyed endodontists. Pediatric endodontic therapy may also be hindered by lack of access to appropriate anesthesia, insurance and financial burdens. More exploration is needed to thoroughly understand barriers that hinder the timely and optimal pediatric endodontic care.