What should be done if an instrument fracture occurs during endodontic treatment?

• A. Document the event in the record.
• B. Ignore and continue.
• C. Remove the fracture from the record.
• D. Email the patient afterward.

Answer: (A)

Documenting an instrument fracture in the patient’s record is essential because it creates a precise, permanent account of what happened, where the fracture occurred, and what actions were taken. This documentation supports continuity of care, guiding future treatment decisions (such as retrieval attempts, bypassing the fragment, or referral) and informing prognosis. It also provides a clear record for informed consent and accountability, reducing medicolegal risk and improving transparency with the patient. In contrast, ignoring the event, deleting it from the record, or communicating only informally later can erode trust and complicate future care. The best practice is to note the fracture factually, include relevant imaging and procedural details, immediate management, and discuss next steps with the patient as part of the treatment plan.