Endodontology--epidemiologic considerations.

The limited information available from endodontic epidemiologic research indicates an increase in prevalence of apical periodontitis with increasing age. Furthermore, apical periodontitis seems mainly to be present in connection with already endodontically treated teeth. This finding should be of particular concern since there is a discrepancy between the quality and results of endodontic therapy performed in general practice compared with the results obtained in specialty clinics. Pulpitis and acute apical periodontitis are main reasons for seeking emergency treatment and affect many people. Dental trauma frequently involving the dentin/pulp organ are likewise prevalent, affecting 30% of children and adolescents. Most information available regarding endodontic treatment is derived from well-controlled clinical studies performed by specialists. Epidemiologic data should be considered a necessary complement to this source of knowledge regarding etiologic factors and proper treatment procedures in order to improve the results of endodontic practice.