![]() In this study, the researchers produced exact copies of natural teeth and measured their properties and accuracy. To be suitable for the desired learning experience, the models are expected to feature physical properties as similar as possible to those of a natural tooth.įinally, a recent study introduced the concept of 3D-printed replicas of extracted teeth for endodontic training. Although studies found artificial tooth models suitable for endodontic training, the results of these studies suggest that complete replacement of natural teeth with artificial teeth for endodontic training should be regarded with caution. įurther advances in 3D printing technology promised more sophisticated models simulating a complete tooth including a hollow space representing the root canal system. These models do not permit learning how to avoid the procedural problems related to the distance between the canal and external surface of the tooth and lateral or apical perforations of the roots. Because they do not represent the external anatomy of the crown and root, these endodontic blocks are of limited educational value. The simplest of the artificial endodontic training models come in the shape of endodontic blocks with a built-in conduit that approximates in its shape and diameter the root canals of natural teeth. Furthermore, the supply of natural teeth is not infinite, and combined with the dwindling number of extracted intact teeth - probably as a result of improvement in health standards - it presents a problem for instructors and students in preclinical endodontics. ![]() Some materials traditionally used for the purpose of efficient disinfection, such as formalin, proved to have hazardous effects of their own. However, this practice was fraught with concerns over infection control and required disinfection of the teeth. The traditional preclinical training involved practicing the procedure on extracted natural teeth. Several studies point out that the quality of root canal treatments performed by undergraduate students is often poor thereby questioning the quality of teaching endodontics. ![]() ![]() However, some limitations of our analysis have to be considered. The results indicate that the DRSK RCT is a promising candidate to be used as an alternative to extracted teeth or as an additional tool for improving dental education. Likewise, students felt that the ability to flare root canals improved after alterations have been applied. Students’ rating of the pulp anatomy significantly increased from 5.4 ± 1.1 (mean ± SD) to 5.9 ± 0.9 (mean ± SD p < 0.05) for the modified model. Students as well as demonstrators positively evaluated both variants of the DRSK RCT with especially high ratings in the overall evaluation. Comparisons between the initial versions and the modified versions were calculated using Chi-squared tests. Additionally, the demonstrators blindly evaluated the quality of root canal treatments performed by the students ( n = 35) on the modified DRSK RCT. According to the evaluations several alterations were applied to the DRSK RCT, the whole study was repeated and evaluated by different students ( n = 35) and the same demonstrators ( n = 7). The obtained questionnaire was conducted as 7-point Likert-Scale covering the topics material properties, feeling while performing exercises and perception of its closeness to reality via 19 items (students) and 21 items (demonstrators). The initial versions were evaluated by students ( n = 25) and demonstrators ( n = 7). They performed endodontic treatments on either initial versions of the DRSK RCT or modified versions. MethodsĪ total number of 60 students and seven demonstrators from a single institution (RWTH Aachen) participated in this study. The aim of the study was to evaluate these models by groups of students and demonstrators. Based on treatment errors made by students participating the endodontic courses at RWTH Aachen University (Germany), new radiopaque artificial root canal treatment models (DRSK RCT incisor, premolar, molar) were designed and developed. The quality of root canal treatments performed by undergraduate students is often unsatisfactory questioning the current methods of teaching.
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