Survey of Vital Pulp Therapy Treatment in Permanent Dentition Being Taught at U.S. Dental Schools

In May 2021, the American Association of Endodontists released a Position Statement on Vital Pulp Therapy (VPT) as a conservative means by which to treat inflamed vital pulps in permanent dentition. The objective of this study was to conduct a survey to understand how U.S. dental schools are educating their students regarding VPT. This survey was administered through Qualtrics. Participation was voluntary and anonymous. 43 of 66 (65%) of the dental schools in the United States completed the survey. All schools (n = 43) indicated that students receive a didactic lecture about VPT on permanent teeth. In contrast, 14 of 43 (33%) schools teach VPT on permanent teeth as a technique exercise in the simulation/pre-clinic; 29 of 43 (67%) do not. Fifty percent of newer dental schools (0-15 years) teach VPT on permanent teeth as a simulation/pre-clinic technique exercise compared with 30% of older dental schools (16 years or older). In older schools, VPT is taught by endodontists 59% of the time, whereas the percentage of endodontists teaching in newer schools is roughly half of that (33%). A paradigm shift in endodontics has occurred due to the development and use of bioceramic dental materials. The standard of dental care is shifting in favor of more conservative treatment options. The results of the study indicate that there is a deficiency in the number of U.S. dental schools teaching VPT on permanent teeth as a simulation/pre-clinic technique exercise.