A questionnaire survey of endodontic practice profile among dentists in Hong Kong

Abstract

Objectives. The present study aimed to gather information on the prevailing endodontic practice of general dental practitioners in Hong Kong. Methods. A cross-sectional postal survey was conducted on 1167 members of the Hong Kong Dental Association in 2001. Information about the materials and techniques used in endodontic treatment was collected. Results. A total of 369 replies were received, of which 343 with valid responses were analyzed, which accounted for 29% of the population surveyed. About half of the respondents (56%) performed one to five endodontic treatments weekly. Over one quarter (28%) routinely used a rubber dam in endodontic treatment. A wide variety of instruments were used for root canal preparation; stainless steel hand files being the most popular (89%). Rotary nickel-titanium instrumentation was practiced by 21% of respondents. Sodium hypochlorite irrigation and calcium hydroxide dressings were used by 63% and 43% of respondents, respectively. Most general dental practitioners (87%) obturated root canals with lateral compaction of gutta-percha. Single-visit treatment was not common; less than 20% of respondents practiced it to a limited extent. Conclusion. Within the limits and the low response rate to the present survey, the results suggest that Hong Kong general dental practitioners treat root canals using techniques and materials commonly taught in dental schools, often as multiple-visit treatments. The utilization of rubber dams in root canal treatment remains low.