Endodontic treatment can be challenging for a number of reasons. Despite best efforts, complications can and do occur during the course of treatment, which can lead to increased stress for dentists and patients. Learning strategies to prevent and mitigate complications can lead to better treatment outcomes. Communication with patients regarding complications - both before and after they occur - is essential. As clinicians, it is our duty to provide information to patients about their health in a way that they can make a fully informed decision regarding their treatment. Whilst every interaction is unique, there are key elements that must be included in a dialogue to reduce the chance of miscommunication and future complications and to fulfil our ethical and legal obligations to our patients.

The aim of this presentation will be to discuss complications in endodontic practice, management strategies and possible effects on outcome. This presentation will also present the ethical and legal obligations of gaining valid consent, with an example of an informed consent discussion in an endodontic setting.

Learning Outcomes:

• Learn strategies to prevent mitigate Endodontic complications
• Understand specific endodontic complications, including fractured instruments, perforations and sodium hypochlorite injuries
• Understand what information is required for valid consent
• Learn strategies on how to present clinical information to patients