Innovative 3D-printed dental teaching model for root canal treatment simulation

Area of Science:

• Endodontics
• Dental Education
• 3D Printing Technology

Background:

• Effective endodontic training requires realistic simulation of clinical procedures like working length (WL) determination.
• Traditional training models using extracted or plastic teeth lack standardization and EAL compatibility.
• Developing standardized, realistic models is crucial for preclinical endodontic education.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and evaluate a 3D-printed tooth model with conductive properties for realistic EAL-based WL determination training.
• To assess the model's reproducibility and accuracy across different user groups and conductive media.
• To create a standardized platform for evaluating proficiency in EAL usage.

Main Methods:

• Custom 3D-printed teeth with defined WLs (20.0 mm and 21.9 mm) were created using CBCT and 3D scanning.
• Teeth were embedded in tap water or saline, and 36 participants performed WL measurements using an EAL.
• Accuracy was defined as measurements within ±0.5 mm of the true WL.

Main Results:

• The 3D-printed model showed high reproducibility across user groups and media.
• Perfect accuracy (100%) was achieved by instructors, while trainees and students showed high accuracy (87.5-100% and 86.7%, respectively).
• Significant differences in accuracy among user groups indicated the model's ability to differentiate experience levels.

Conclusions:

• The novel 3D-printed model provides a realistic and standardized platform for endodontic training in EAL-based WL determination.
• The model effectively simulates root canal anatomy and conductive conditions, aiding in skill assessment.
• This tool bridges the gap between theoretical knowledge and clinical application in endodontics.