The Effect of 3D Printed Models on the Ability of Dental Students to Locate the Second Mesiobuccal Canal in Maxillary First Molars
Year: 2025
Type: article
Study design: Clinical Trial
Abstract: OBJECTIVES: Endodontic treatment is one of the final options aimed at preserving a tooth before extraction. The complex root canal anatomy of maxillary first molars (MFMs), particularly the detection of the second canal located in the mesiobuccal root, presents a significant clinical challenge. This study evaluates the influence of 3D-printed MFM models on the ability of dental students to identify the second mesiobuccal (MB2) canal. METHODS: A total of 50 dental students who had completed their preclinical endodontic training were included in the study. In the first phase, standardized 3D printed models (3DPMs) were given to the students, who were then instructed to perform access cavity preparations and locate the root canals. Subsequently, a theoretical lecture on the morphology of the MB2 canal was delivered using digital 3D visualizations, supported by an enlarged 3DPM magnified fivefold. Following the theoretical training, the same procedure was repeated using new models. Participants' feedback was collected through a five-point Likert scale questionnaire. RESULTS: Prior to the training, only one student was able to accurately identify the MB2 canal; however, this number increased significantly following the educational intervention (p < 0.001). A total of 96% of the participants reported that the 3DPM were effective in distinguishing canal locations, and 100% indicated that the models contributed educationally to their understanding of endodontic anatomy. CONCLUSION: Educational materials based on 3D printing technology enhance the effectiveness of preclinical endodontic training and improve students' ability to perceive and identify complex root canal anatomies.
Source: Journal of Dental Education
DOI: 10.1002/jdd.70092
Authors: Eda Gürsu Şahin, Remzi Orkun Akgün
Institution: Çankırı Karatekin University
Language: English
Subfield: Biomedical Engineering
Field: Engineering
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W4415647157