Examination forms for the NBDE Part II rely exclusively on the endodontic terms adopted by the American Association of Endodontists (AAE) in 2009. Based on feedback from NBDE test constructors in the area of Endodontics, the AAE has provided the Joint Commission with the following summary indicating old and new terms. This summary is being provided as a student reference, due to the fact that individual researchers, practitioners, and existing textbooks could communicate information using either set of terms. 

Old Terminology to new:

A clinical diagnostic category in which the pulp is symptom-free and normally responsive to pulp testing. 

Reversible Pulpitis >>> Reversible Pulpitis 

A clinical diagnosis based on subjective and objective findings indicating that the inflammation should resolve and the pulp return to normal. 

A clinical diagnosis based on subjective and objective findings indicating that the vital inflamed pulp is incapable of healing. 

Irreversible Pulpitis Asymptomatic >>> Irreversible Pulpitis 

A clinical diagnosis based on subjective and objective findings indicating that the vital inflamed pulp is incapable of healing. 

A clinical diagnostic category indicating death of the dental pulp. The pulp is usually nonresponsive to pulp testing.

A clinical diagnostic category indicating that the tooth has been endodontically treated and the canals are obturated with various filling materials other than intracanal medicaments. 

A clinical diagnostic category indicating that the tooth has been previously treated by partial endodontic therapy (e.g., pulpotomy, pulpectomy). 

Teeth with normal periradicular tissues that are not sensitive to percussion or palpation testing. The lamina dura surrounding the root is intact and the periodontal ligament space is uniform. 

Inflammation, usually of the apical periodontium, producing clinical symptoms including a painful response to biting and/or percussion or palpation. It may or may not be associated with an apical radiolucent area.