Perspectives of general dental practitioners on restoring endodontically treated molars: a UK-based vignette study

Aims To assess and compare how UK general dental practitioners (GDPs) restore endodontically treated molars and what tooth-related factors they consider relevant to their management.

Method An online cross-sectional vignette survey was sent out to UK dentists via email and the use of social media platforms. Three clinical cases were designed.

Results In total, 394 participants completed the survey. GDPs showed a preference towards restoring the endodontically treated molars with indirect restorations, such as crowns and onlays. Material selection varied, with a notable inclination towards gold and lithium disilicate. This was influenced by factors such as the number of remaining tooth walls, thickness of walls and the presence of parafunction.

Conclusion Clinicians generally agreed on whether to place a direct or indirect restoration but there was greater disagreement when deciding on the type of restoration and material. Further evidence and education are required to help UK dentists decide more objectively whether to place an onlay or a crown, what material to select and what prognostic factors are most pertinent to the case.