The ethical debate between what patients want, need and can afford, and what treatment clinicians think they should receive
Keywords:
Endodontic, logistical, irreversibleAbstract
Endodontic emergencies are common procedures in dental practice, and need to be addressed as soon as possible. The initial treatment is usually extirpation of the pulp –also known as emergency root canal treatment (ERCT), –followed by complete cleaning, shaping and obturation ofthe root canal system. Root canal therapy (RCT) needs to be completed with a definitive restoration to increase long term prognosis of the tooth. Both of these carry additional costs. Patients treated in government facilities often have limited access to follow-up care due to long waiting lists, financial constraints or logistical challenges.
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