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Technique acquisition in the use of two thermoplasticized root filling methods by inexperienced dental students: a
Mana Mirfendereski1, Karina Roth, Bing Fan
1Discipline of Endodontics, University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
Introduction:
Limited endodontic experiences in dental schools suggest the need for easy-to-learn techniques. Therefore, two simplified root filling methods were assessed for adequacy and expediency when performed by inexperienced students.
Methods:
Eight students were trained (45-minute lecture and 90-minute practice) in use of ProTaper Obturators (PTO) and System-B/Calamus (SBC). They subsequently filled the root canals in two extracted, single-rooted teeth per method (n = 32). Canals were preshaped and prefitted with obturators and master cones. The volume of root-filling voids determined by microcomputed tomography imaging in 1-mm increments, time to complete fillings, and students' responses in questionnaires were analyzed (independent-sample t test and Mann-Whitney U test).
Results:
PTO had a significantly smaller void volume in the apical 6 mm of canals (P < 0.001), required significantly shorter time (P < 0.001), and was perceived as easier to learn and use but less likely to be favored after graduation than SBC.
Conclusion:
These results suggested that the PTO root filling method was particularly suitable for teaching when endodontic experiences available for students are limited.
