Quality of Preclinical and Clinical Root Canal Fillings performed by Undergraduate Students on Single-rooted Teeth

Abstract

This study evaluated the radiographic technical quality of preclinical and clinical root canal fillings (RCF) performed by undergraduate students on single-rooted teeth. Two independent calibrated endodontic specialists evaluated 94 preclinical radiographs (group 1) and 96 clinical radiographs (group 2). The apical length of each RCF was categorized as acceptable (0-2.0 mm short of the radiographic apex), underfilled (2.0 mm or more short of the radiographic apex) and overfilled (extruded beyond the radiographic apex). Inadequate or adequate homogeneity were also evaluated based on the presence of voids and the uniform density of the RCF. Cohen's kappa and Chi-square tests (p < 0.05) were used for statistical analysis. The interexaminer agreement level was almost perfect (>0.80). Approximately 80% of RCF had acceptable length in both groups, with no significant differences among them (p > 0.05). The rate of adequate homogeneity was higher in Group 2 when compared with group 1 (p < 0.05). Overall, the quality of RCF was satisfactory with better homogeneous seal at the clinical level.