Teaching of Engine-Driven Root Canal Treatment Globally-A "Questionnaire Based" Study

The teaching of root canal therapy, particularly engine-driven root canal preparation, varies across dental schools. Therefore, this qualitative, questionnaire-based study aimed to identify preferred engine-driven endodontic systems at top-ranked dental universities and to explore the reasons behind their selection.

An online questionnaire with 16 questions (both open and closed-ended) was distributed to academicians responsible for teaching endodontics at 80 leading dental schools, selected based on the 2023 QS (Quacquarelli Symonds) rankings. The survey gathered information on the selection and use of instruments for root canal preparation in dental curricula. Data analysis involved descriptive statistics and chi-square tests.

Forty-six valid responses were received (58.2% response rate). WaveOne Gold and ProTaper Gold were the most commonly used instruments in both general dental and postgraduate courses. For general courses, ease of use and safety were key factors in instrument selection, while shaping time was the least important. In postgraduate courses, evidence-based practice was prioritized, with shaping time again being the least important. Significant relationships were found between system selection and geographic location (p = 0.014), funding type (p = 0.037), students' ability to treat molars (p = 0.001), and instructor qualifications (p < 0.001).

This study highlights the primary factors influencing the selection of root canal instruments in dental education programs, with ease of use, safety, and evidence-based practice being the most significant determinants. These factors play a crucial role in the selection of tools taught to dental students. However, further investigation is needed to determine whether these preferences are associated with clinical outcomes and to explore the potential for diversifying the instruments taught in dental schools globally.