(TC20) QuickStart Guide to Managing Non-Traumatic Endodontic Emergencies: A Resource for Referring Offices

Effective management of non-traumatic endodontic emergencies is essential to alleviate pain, reduce infection risks, and preserve dental structures. This table clinic presents a structured guide for referring offices, focusing on a systematic approach through the "3 Ds" framework: Diagnosis, Definitive Dental Treatment, and Drug Therapy. It highlights evidence-based strategies for conditions such as symptomatic irreversible pulpitis, necrotic pulp, symptomatic apical periodontitis, and acute apical abscess. Key interventions include pulpotomy, pulpectomy, root canal debridement, and incision and drainage, complemented by pharmacologic management with NSAIDs, acetaminophen, and antibiotics when necessary.

Building on recent findings, this clinic emphasizes the importance of a comprehensive approach to managing emergencies, aligning with the principles outlined by Abbott et al., where accurate diagnosis is pivotal to directing definitive treatment and judicious use of drugs as an adjunct (Abbott, 2021). Additionally, a systematic review by Tampi et al. underscores the need to balance benefits and potential harms in the use of antibiotics for endodontic emergencies (Tampi et al.).

Attendees will gain a step-by-step framework for stabilizing patients, ensuring effective communication with specialists, and streamlining referrals. This clinic underscores the importance of equipping general dental practices with standardized emergency protocols to enhance collaboration and improve patient outcomes.