A survey for endodontists in today's economy: Exploring the current state of endodontics as a profession and the relationship between endodontists and their referral base

Introduction The purpose of this study was to assess the perceptions, referral trends, and practice patterns of practicing endodontists in the United States and any effect the recent economy may have had on these. Methods A 24-question survey was formulated and sent via www.surveymonkey.com to 3255 active members of the American Association of Endodontists. Overall, 875 participants completed the survey, a response rate of 26.9%. Results The average number of treatment cases per day was 5.7. Average work hours per week were 34.3 for men and 30.7 for women (P <.05). Among all treatment cases, 46% were nonsurgical retreatment, and 7.2% were apical surgical procedures. Procedural misadventure accounted for 10.8% of all treatment cases, with the most common referral reason being unable to locate canals (75.0%) followed by separated instruments (15.3%). Of all respondents, 49.9% performed regenerative endodontic procedures, and 7.7% placed implants. Among endodontists who practice in urban areas, 69.7% believed there were too many endodontists, and 50% have delayed their retirement plans because of recent economic impact, compared with their suburban and rural counterparts at 66.1% and 38%, 25.9% and 33.1%, respectively (P <.05). Fifty-nine percent of respondents were optimistic about the future of endodontics as a specialty, but those who have practiced more than 20 years were more pessimistic than those with less experience (P <.05). Conclusions Recent economic impacts appear to have had an effect on the perceptions of active endodontists regarding practice success, the future of the specialty, and their retirement plans. Those who have been in practice longest (>20 years), practice in urban settings, and practice in a solo environment are most significantly affected.