Failing before starting: when not to do endodontics.

It's a fact: Perfect endodontic treatment can be unsuccessful. Unfortunately, endodontic failure often can result from an inadequate preliminary diagnosis or prognosis assessment. Many variables should be considered before endodontic treatment begins, including assessing the endodontic case, addressing periodontal concerns, determining restorative issues, and detecting root fractures. If these parameters are not evaluated carefully, then short- or long-term endodontic failure will result. Unfortunately, an endodontic prognosis assessment is often subjective. Although dentists must rely on evidence-based research to determine the best modality of treatment, good clinical judgment and experience may override the most objective findings. This article discusses the objective and subjective nuances involved in evaluating the potential prognosis of endodontic treatment.