DIAGNOSTICS IN ENDODONTICS
Endodontic diagnostics is mainly focused on identifying pulpal and periapical infection-driven inflammation. History of events, previous and current symptoms, clinical observations and tests, and radiographic examination findings are the factors commonly used to derive the diagnosis, but the evidence for the correlation of specific anamnestic or clinical findings with the true state of the pulp is scarce, and clear consensus for diagnostic criteria is lacking. New and improved methods for vital pulp treatment enables preservation of pulp vitality to a greater extent today than historically, with increasing demands of valid methods for reliable identification of the state of the pulp. A correct diagnosis is a prerequisite for appropriate management, and the accuracy of current and future diagnostic cues and tests should be examined in high-quality studies. Today, diagnostic terms vary between the Nordic countries but are usually to some extent based on ICD-10. Mutually agreed diagnostic terms based on clear and operationalized clinical and data-driven diagnostic criteria would be helpful for the dentist and benefit the patients.
