ABSTRACT
Objective: This study examined the endodontic experience, perceptions of endodontic practice,
and self-rated confidence of dental students enrolled in Taibah University, Saudi
Arabia. Materials and Methods: A questionnaire was distributed to 41 undergraduate dental students registered in
endodontic courses in the 2015 academic year. The questionnaire evaluated their confidence
performing nonsurgical root canal treatment. The level of confidence was classified
using a 5-point scale as “very confident,” “confident,” “neutral,” “not very confident,”
or “not at all confident.” The data were analyzed using SPSS version 20.0 (SPSS, Chicago,
IL, USA). Results: The participation rate was 93%. The maxillary incisor was the most common first tooth
treated. The students were relatively confident, but their confidence levels were
lower regarding endodontic radiology, evaluation of root canal obturation, and determining
the correct recall period for the patient. Conclusion: The confidence of undergraduates in endodontics must be enhanced to increase their
clinical competence when performing root canal treatment.
Key words:
Dental students - education - endodontics - Saudi Arabia - self-confidence
