Endoperiodontal lesions and Chicago's new classification of periodontal and peri-implant diseases and conditions

Abstract

Aim: To illustrate, with two clinical cases of endoperiodontal lesions, the clinical application of the new classification of periodontal and periimplant diseases and conditions. Background: The endodont and the periodont are two entities that communicate with each other through physiological communication channels (apical foramen, lateral and secondary canals, and dentinal tubules) resulting in close anatomical and functional interaction. An endoperiodontal lesion is defined by pathological communication between the endodontic and periodontal tissues in a given tooth, according to the definition given by the new classification of periodontal and peri-implant diseases and conditions from the work of the Chicago Consensus Conference in 2017. This new classification differentiates the lesions with and without root damage. Diagnosis and therapeutic strategy will be analyzed through two clinical cases. Review results: The clinical cases we presented show that the treatment of these lesions must involve endodontic and periodontal management due to the intimate relationship between the tooth and periodontium. Conclusion: The classification of periodontal and peri-implant diseases and conditions provides a clinical focus on endoperiodontal lesions, based on signs and symptoms that have a direct effect on the prognosis and the treatment of the tooth. The pathological communication between the endodont and the periodontium complicates the management of the involved tooth. Clinical significance: Chicago's new classification of periodontal and peri-implant diseases and conditions offers an up-to-date vision of periodontal lesions management and highlights the intimate links between endodontic and periodontal tissues.