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Perceptions and Procedural Errors in the Use of a Patient-Specific 3D-Printed Model for MTA Apexification Technique
H Plascencia1,2, M A Contreras-Preciado2,3, J F Brito-Ortiz2,3
1Endodontic Postgraduate Program, University Centre of Health Sciences (CUCS), University of Guadalajara, Guadalajara, Mexico.
International Endodontic Journal
|July 17, 2025
Summary
Patient-specific 3D-printed dental models show high acceptance for training in MTA apexification. While procedural accuracy is comparable to natural teeth, refinements are suggested for optimal effectiveness in endodontic education.
Area of Science:
- Endodontic Education
- Dental Simulation
- Biomedical Engineering
Background:
- Traditional endodontic training relies on extracted natural teeth, which have limitations in availability and standardization.
- Patient-specific 3D-printed models offer a novel approach to bridge theoretical knowledge and clinical application in endodontics.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the effectiveness of patient-specific 3D-printed dental models versus extracted natural teeth for training postgraduate residents in the Mineral Trioxide Aggregate (MTA) apexification technique.
- To evaluate procedural accuracy and resident perceptions between the two training modalities.
Main Methods:
- A mixed in vitro study involving 21 postgraduate endodontic residents randomly assigned to use either extracted natural teeth (control group) or 3D-printed open-apex models (experimental group).
- Participants performed MTA apexification training, followed by Likert scale surveys and radiographic assessment of procedural accuracy by an observer.
- Statistical analyses included descriptive statistics, correlation, confirmatory factor analysis, chi-square, and Fisher's exact tests.
Main Results:
- 3D-printed models achieved high acceptance rates (96.6% satisfaction, 70.79% questionnaire approval).
- Overall procedural accuracy was comparable (86.14% error-free) between groups, with significant correlations noted among key procedural steps for 3D models.
- The control group showed better performance in working length determination (p=0.043) and achieving a homogeneous apical barrier (p=0.004).
Conclusions:
- Patient-specific 3D-printed open-apex teeth are well-accepted and support proficient MTA apexification training.
- While overall performance is comparable to natural teeth, specific procedural differences indicate potential for model refinement.
- These 3D-printed models show promise as effective alternative training tools in postgraduate endodontic education.
