Root canal treatment as a treatment modality for temporary tooth retention in adolescent patients.

In certain cases root canal treatment may be an adequate intermediate therapy, mainly for severely traumatized teeth in adolescent patients that probably cannot be retained permanently. The treatment aims at temporary retention of otherwise hopeless teeth until definite treatment, for example insertion of bridges or dental implants, may be performed. This kind of treatment can help to avoid the application of removable prostheses in young patients. This treatment modality requires intensive information to be presented to the patients and their parents on the benefits and risks of the treatment procedures, endodontic treatment under aseptic conditions respecting the general guidelines for root canal treatment, and a strict recall regimen to avoid occurrence or increase of pathological conditions. Four cases (five teeth) of temporary tooth retention by endodontic treatment are presented.