Advances in the understanding of endodontic pathosis, aseptic technique, and principles of canal preparation and obturation have led to significantly increased and predictable healing rates for endodontic treatment-95% and higher under ideal conditions according to this study. However, the treatment must be delivered in a predictable manner by the treating practitioner to optimize the healing potential. The AAE has developed practical tools to help every dentist overcome case assessment pitfalls:

• Endodontic Case Difficulty Assessment Article (PDF File, 587KB) This newsletter discusses endodontic treatment planning, case assessment and referral from a specialist’s perspective.
• Reading List (PDF File, 48KB) A comprehensive list of references supporting the topic of case assessment and referral.
• AAE Case Difficulty Assessment Form and Guidelines (PDF File, 411KB) The Assessment Form enables a practitioner to assign levels of difficulty to a particular case by assessing risk factors that may affect the outcome of treatment. The form may also be used to assist with referral decision making and record keeping.
• Educator’s Guide to Using the AAE Endodontic Case Difficulty Assessment Form (PDF File, 44KB) This guide is designed to assist educators in teaching predoctoral dental students objective evaluation and decision-making skills in endodontics.
• Forging Effective Alliances for Quality Patient Care (PDF File, 127KB) This article discusses the value of effective referral relationships.