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Caries

265 - Parental Decision-Making: Endodontic Therapy vs Extraction in Permanent Molars

Saturday, May 23, 2026
11:15 AM - 11:30 AM PST
Has Audio

    Presenting Author(s)

  • Yani Rizo, DMD (she/her/hers)

    Pediatric dental resident
    Cooper University Hospital
    Cooper University Hospital
    Moorestown, New Jersey, United States

    • Research Mentor(s)

  • AL

    Ashley Lebak, DMD

    Program Director
    Cooper University
    Cherry Hill, New Jersey, United States

    • Program Director(s)

  • AL

    Ashley Lebak, DMD

    Pediatric Dentist
    Cooper University Hospital
    Cherry Hill, New Jersey, United States

Abstract:

Purpose: This study examines factors that influence parental decision-making in the management of large carious lesions in children’s permanent molars, specifically when choosing between endodontic therapy with full-coverage restoration versus extraction.



Methods: The study will be conducted at a single pediatric dental practice, Pediatric Dental Associates—Cherry Hill, using a brief, anonymous, in-person survey administered to parents and guardians of pediatric patients. Eligible participants are parents/guardians of children aged 6–14 years with large carious lesions in permanent molars; children are generally healthy (ASA I or stable ASA II) and able to cooperate for routine dental care. The survey will assess parental perspectives and the factors that guide treatment decisions related to perceived urgency of treatment, cost considerations, provider recommendations and trust in providers, access to specialty care, prior dental experiences, dental anxiety, and anticipated long-term dental needs for the child. Surveys will be available in English and Spanish and may be completed on paper or electronically (tablet or QR code). Planned analyses include descriptive statistics (frequencies, percentages) and chi-square or Fisher’s exact tests. Significance will be set at P< .05.



Results: Final Data Pending.



Conclusions: The findings aim to inform strategies that improve provider–parent communication and support shared decision-making in the management of permanent molars with extensive carious involvement.

Identify Supporting Agency and Grant Number: Research supported by no external funding (no grant number)