Introduction

Welcome reader, to this tenth edition of Pathways of the Pulp, a reconceptualized textbook that blends form, content, print, and digital formats to describe and detail the transformative future of endodontics. The first edition of Pathways of the Pulp was published in 1976, with the aim of describing in a single print volume the basic and clinical science of what was then the emerging specialty of endodontics. Nine editions later, we have continued to refine and redefine the scope and organization of our textbook to mirror and represent the changing science of endodontics and the evolving landscape of learning and communication. Now offered in 14 different languages, Pathways of the Pulp is the most comprehensive and innovative evidence-based endodontic textbook available.

Beginning with the ninth edition, Pathways of the Pulp has been available anytime, anywhere to readers in an online version, enhanced with instructional images and graphics and periodic content updates. The new format of the tenth edition has expanded the use of digital resources to achieve a seamless blending of print and online content through the addition of narrated video clips and animations, and quarterly content updates drawn from the peer-reviewed literature.

Although the evolving form and format of Pathways of the Pulp defines its commitment to education, the steady and selfless dedication of the more than 150 contributors to the 10 editions honors and extends our tradition of collaborating with the most qualified and highly regarded authors, academicians, and researches in our field. Working with all of the dedicated teachers and scientists who author our chapters continues to be the signature honor and privilege for the editors. We are especially grateful to Dr. Lou Berman, who in his capacity as Webmaster has made our promise of online availability and digital features a reality. We are all indebted as well to Elsevier for its willingness to explore and support ever more dynamic and engaging ways of imparting knowledge and communicating with our readers.

The nine prior editions of Pathways of the Pulp have begun with a chapter on the history of endodontics and the inspiring story of the intense interplay between basic science and clinical care that established and certified our specialty. The vision and dedication of our founders who lived that history are now embedded in the field and practice of endodontics, and to call them out separately would seem to distance them rather than bring them closer to us. What now connects us more productively and most effectively with our storied past is our commitment to redefining that critical interplay between basic science and clinical care in terms of new technologies, new possibilities, and new expectations.

In this tenth edition, through evidence-based discussions in all of our 30 chapters, including five that are only available online, we have meticulously detailed that what was once regarded as science fiction in clinical care is now rapidly becoming clinical endodontic fact. The quality of care available to patients has never been higher, from the administrative efficiency and privacy protection afforded to patients through electronic medical records, to the greatly enhanced effectiveness of infection management through real-time PCR. A sampling of the innovative and paradigm shifting developments outlined in this edition include the following:

As clinicians we must meet this rich convergence of discovery and invention with an equally rich commitment to continuous learning, exposing ourselves to all the science our field has to offer. This is our duty to our founders, this is our responsibility to our patients, and this is our gift to ourselves.

As I conclude this Introduction I also bring to a close my 35 years as editor of Pathways of the Pulp. It is with complete confidence and great excitement that I pass the editorship of our book to Dr. Kenneth Hargreaves, a uniquely qualified and accomplished scientist, educator, and clinician.

I am deeply grateful for the privilege of editing and contributing to Pathways of the Pulp. It has been a true labor of love, which has allowed me to indulge my passion for science and my love of teaching. Perhaps most importantly, however, my editorship has taught me what it means to practice endodontics, a true healing art.