The 4th edition has been systematically organized to simulate the order of procedures performed in a clinical setting. It contains information regarding normal structures, etiology of disease, diagnosis and treatment planning, local anesthesia, emergency treatment, root canal instruments, access preparations, cleaning and shaping, obturation, and temporization. In addition, it covers etiology, prevention and treatment of accidental procedural errors as well as treatment of inadequate root canal treated teeth using non-surgical and surgical approaches. Furthermore, it provides guidelines regarding the assessment of outcomes of these procedures.

The distinctive features of the new edition are: a) order of its contents, b) combined chapters, c) reduced size of the book, d) updated relevant and recent references, e) information regarding new scientific as well as technological advances in the field of endodontics, f) presentation of color figures, g) video clips for selected procedures, and h) questions at the end of each chapter to test subject comprehension. By adding these features to the list of objectives in the beginning of each chapter, we are providing the reader a textbook that is concise, current, and easy to follow in an interactive manner.

The new format gives the reader an opportunity to learn the scope of contemporary principles and practice of endodontics. This textbook is not intended to include all background information on the art and science of endodontics. At the same time, it is not designed to be a “cookbook” or as a pre-clinical laboratory technique manual. We have tried to provide the reader with the basic information to perform root canal treatment and to have background knowledge in related areas.  The reader should use this textbook as a building block for understanding the etiology and treatment of teeth with pulpal and periapical diseases, and then expand her or his endodontic experiences with more challenging cases. Providing the best quality of care is the guiding light for treatment planning and performing appropriate treatment.