Inadequate root canal and coronal restorations were associated with an increased incidence of AP.

The average number of teeth, the number of teeth with AP and the number of teeth with endodontic treatment in Danish adults were comparable to findings in other European countries. The frequency of endodontically treated teeth with AP was found to be high compared to that demonstrated in other epidemiological studies.

Results from the present study demonstrate that it is important to provide high quality dental restorations to minimize the risk of pulpal infection. The clinical focus, in relation to the incidence of AP, should be on improving the quality of the coronal restoration. The quality of a root filling was not associated with the incidence of AP, but may be of importance in relation to healing of AP.

Whilst the technical quality of endodontic treatment had improved during the last 24 years, basic differences between the populations prevented assessment of the impact of this change on disease frequencies. The study indicates that great care should be taken when comparing different patient populations, in particular more emphasis should be placed on the selection and description of study groups.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the clinical performance of four types of tooth‐colored inlays. The systems included 15 direct ceramic inlays (CEREC Vita‐Blocks), 15 direct composite inlays (Brilliant D.I., Coltène), 14 indirect ceramic inlays (Vita Dur N), and 14 indirect composite inlays (Estilux) in 37 patients. The inlays were evaluated clinically 1 wk (base line) and 6 and 12 months after cementation. The clinical assessments were supported by bitewing radiographs. One Vita Dur N inlay fractured after 1 yr of service, and one Brilliant D.I. inlay had to be replaced because of secondary caries. No apparent increase in plaque accumulation or gingival inflammation could be related to treatment with inlays. At base line and throughout the observation period, the Vita Dur N inlays received the highest ratings for morphology and color match. The Brilliant D.I. inlays showed the smoothest surface texture, whereas the Estilux inlays showed the roughest texture. After 6–12 months of observation, all types of inlays showed varying degrees of disintegration of the composite luting cement. Within the observation period, all inlay systems appeared to be clinically acceptable.