Self-reported preparedness of final year undergraduate dental students and interns in Saudi Arabia: a multi-institutional study.

BACKGROUND: Contemporary undergraduate dental education aims to equip the dental students with clinical competence, empathy, and professionalism to enable them to deliver safe and effective dental care to the communities. The purpose of this study was to assess the self-reported preparedness of final year dental students and interns at three Saudi dental institutions, using the pre-validated Dental Undergraduates Preparedness Assessment Scale (DU-PAS). METHODS: A cross-sectional study design was employed to assess the self-reported preparedness of the participants using the DU-PAS. Following ethics approval, a probability sampling technique was used to recruit undergraduate dental students and interns from three dental institutions in Saudi Arabia. The data was collected online on Google Forms and all participants provided their consent to participate in the study prior to providing their responses to DU-PAS. RESULTS: Responses were received from 397 participants including 171 males and 226 females yielding a response rate of 60.3%. The total mean score of the participants was 81.85 ± 13.11. Although higher scores were reported in males, the interaction between gender and DU-PAS scores were not significant. Interaction between DU-PAS scores and stage of education showed significant effect of the stage of education with interns reporting higher overall scores. The participants reported that they were able to perform most clinical procedures independently. However, low confidence was reported in performing multi-rooted endodontics, fabrication of removable dentures and orthodontic assessment. The participants also expressed their confidence in a wide range of behavioural attributes related to communication, teamworking and professionalism. However, lack of experience was noted in referral for oral cancer, interpreting research, and evaluation of new dental products using an evidence-based approach. CONCLUSION: The study provides useful insights into the self-reported preparedness of undergraduate dental students and interns in three dental institutions. While the overall preparedness of the participants was comparable to their international peers, the findings underscore the need for further enhancements to the teaching and training of undergraduate students particularly in multirooted endodontics, removable prosthodontics and orthodontics.

Assessment of treatment needs, barriers, and self-perception regarding oral health among female university students: a cross-sectional study.

BACKGROUND: The study aimed to compare the self-perceived oral health status measured through a self-administered questionnaire with clinically determined oral health status measured by decayed-missing-filled teeth (DMFT) and community periodontal index of treatment need (CPITN) indices in university going females. In addition, access barriers to treatment related to oral healthcare were also determined. METHODS: A 3-month analytical cross-sectional study was designed for consenting university going females (aged 18-22 years) in Islamabad, Pakistan. The self-perceived oral health was recorded through a questionnaire requesting information regarding socio-demographics, self-perception of oral health, frequency of dental visits and barriers to seeking oral health. Seven independent examiners performed intraoral clinical examination and assessed the oral health status using globally standardized oral health assessment indices (DMFT and CPITN). RESULTS: A total of 400 students were included in the final sample. The study revealed a significant disparity between self-perceived oral health and clinical assessment. Although perceived oral health was considered "good" by 80.0% of the respondents, clinical examination revealed moderate DMFT scores (mean 2.95 ± 1.41) and periodontal disease requiring treatment in 89.5% of the individuals. The most common barriers in seeking dental care were lack of knowledge, dental phobia, affordability issue and false self-perception. CONCLUSION: The present study demonstrated a notable discrepancy between self-perception of oral health and clinically assessed oral health. These results emphasize the importance of focused educational programs and community outreach programs, especially directed towards this demographic. Prioritizing such initiatives will help individuals to recognize their actual oral health condition thus encouraging positive oral health behaviors and outcomes.

CBCT based investigation of frequency of Middle Mesial Canal in Mandibular First Molars of Saudi Sub-population.

Objective: One key factor in determining endodontic treatment outcome is the clinicians' comprehension of tooth anatomy, as missed canals may harbor bacteria ultimately leading to apical periodontitis. The study aimed to investigate the prevalence of middle mesial canal (MMC) in Mandibular first molars (MFMs) of Saudi subpopulation. Methods: The cross-sectional retrospective study was conducted at Qassim University Dental College from June to August 2023. Overall, 302 CBCT images with 604 bilateral lower first molars were examined by two calibrated assessors. The existence of MMC was noted. The data were coded, and analysis was done in SPPS-24. The reliability of inter-evaluator and intra-evaluator agreement for detecting MMC were estimated using Cohen's kappa. Results: The patients' average age was 30.95±11.61years. The sample's female to male ratio was 1:1.75. The overall frequency of MMC was 14.2%. The differences in the frequency of MMC on the basis of gender, quadrants and age groups were found to be insignificant. Inter-evaluator and intra-evaluator reliability was noted to be 0.78 and 0.74, depicting acceptable reliability. Conclusions: The MMC is an uncommon occurrence with rare bilateral presentation in MFMs of Saudi population. Endodontists performing endodontic treatment in such subjects should mindfully investigate inter mesiobuccal- mesiolingual canals area for locating, negotiating, and managing any present MMC's.

Attitude and practice of regenerative endodontic procedures among endodontists and paediatric dentists: A multinational survey from 13 countries.

BACKGROUND: Regenerative endodontics (RET) refers to biologically based procedures that aim to restore damaged tooth structures and reinstate the pulp-dentine complex to its normal physiological state. AIM: The purpose of this study was to examine the attitudes and practices of endodontists and paediatric dentists regarding RET. DESIGN: A survey was conducted among endodontists and paediatric dentists from 13 countries. A number of factors were evaluated, including frequency of RET application, followed guidelines, disinfection techniques, intracanal medication type, scaffold type, preferred coronal seal material, and follow-up period. RESULTS: Among the 1394 respondents, 853 (61.2%) and 541 (38.8%) were endodontists and paediatric dentists, respectively. Almost half (43%) of participants have not performed RET yet. The American Association of Endodontics guideline (47.3%) was selected as the primary source for the clinical protocol. The most frequently selected irrigant solution was 1.5%-3% NaOCl at the first (26.1%) and second (13.6%) sessions. A blood clot (68.7%) and MTA (61.9%) were the most frequently selected scaffold type and coronal barrier. Most participants preferred a 6-month follow-up period. CONCLUSION: According to this survey, deviations exist from current RET guidelines regarding all aspects evaluated. Standardizing clinical protocols and adhering to available guidelines would help to ensure more predictable outcomes.

Comparison of Efficacy of Lidocaine and Articaine as Inferior Alveolar Nerve Blocking Agents in Patients with Symptomatic Irreversible Pulpitis: Randomized Controlled Trial.

Background and Objectives: Lidocaine Hydrochloride has been the standard choice for local anesthesia in dentistry and Articaine's unique structure and growing popularity make it a viable alternative. Due to contradictory results in prior research and a scarcity of trials conducted in the Pakistani population, this study aims to compare the anesthetic efficacy of Lidocaine with Articaine for inferior alveolar nerve blocks in patients with symptomatic irreversible pulpitis. Materials and Methods: This double-blinded, randomized controlled trial included 152 patients who were selected by consecutive non-probability sampling. The participants included patients who presented with symptomatic irreversible pulpitis in mandibular posterior teeth (molars and premolars) and depicted normal apical tissue radiographically. The patients were equally and randomly divided into two groups. The control group received 2% Lidocaine Hydrochloride injections, and the experiment group received 4% Articaine Hydrochloride injections. Participants scored their pain on the HP-VAS both before and after the administration of anesthesia. A value of 54 mm or less on the scale indicated effective anesthesia. The data obtained were analyzed using SPSS. Chi-square test was applied to analyze data for statistical significance. Results: There was no statistically significant difference in the efficacy of the two anesthetic agents. During access cavity preparation, Lidocaine demonstrated a success rate of 93%, whereas Articaine exhibited a slightly higher success rate of 97%. During initial instrumentation, the success rates for Lidocaine and Articaine were 72% and 71%, respectively. This suggests that both Lidocaine and Articaine were effective in achieving anesthesia during the dental procedure in patients with symptomatic irreversible pulpitis, with Articaine showing a slightly better success rate, although the difference was not statistically significant. Conclusions: The anesthetic efficacy of Articaine is similar to that of lidocaine in subjects with symptomatic irreversible pulpitis. Hence, Articaine can serve as an alternative to Lidocaine for local anesthesia administration in dentistry.

A Cone Beam Computed Tomography-Based Investigation of the Frequency and Pattern of Radix Entomolaris in the Saudi Arabian Population.

Background and Objectives: An understanding of the anatomical complexity of teeth is a significant factor for a successful endodontic treatment outcome. The aim of this study was to explore the frequency and pattern of distribution of radix entomolaris (RE) in mandibular first molars (MFMs) of a Saudi Arabian subpopulation using CBCT scans. Materials and Methods: This study was conducted at dental clinics of Qassim University from February to May 2023 by evaluating CBCT scans that were previously obtained for diagnostic purposes. Scans of Saudi national patients with bilaterally present MFMs and fully formed root apices were included. Conversely, scans with one/or two missing MFMs, MFMs with incomplete root apices, full- or partial-coverage prosthesis, endodontic treatment, and associated radicular resorption were excluded from study. A total of 303 CBCT scans with 606 bilateral MFMs were analyzed by two calibrated evaluators for the presence of, and type according to Song's typolgy of RE. The data were analyzed using SPPS-24. The descriptive variables were documented as frequencies and percentages. The chi-square test was used to determine the association between the prevalence of RE with the gender, jaw side and age group. Both inter-rater and intra-rater agreements were estimated for detecting and classifying RE using Cohen's kappa test. Results: The sample had 63.7% males and 36.3% females. The prevalence of RE was 6.6%, with Song's type III (57.5%) as the most common variant. Absolute agreement was noted between the raters about the presence of RE and very strong agreement was noted for the classification of the RE. Conclusions: RE is an uncommon finding among the mandibular first molars of the Saudi population without any gender and quadrant predilection. The clinicians' knowledge of the presence and Song's type of RE may contribute towards the enhancement of endodontic treatment outcomes.

Students' performance in clinics and self-perceived Confidence in performing Endodontic procedures: A correlation study.

Objective: The study aimed to evaluate undergraduate dental students' self-perceived confidence in carrying out Endodontic procedures and correlating it with their performance in Endodontic clinics. Methods: The correlational study was conducted on fifth year dental students at Qassim University, Saudi Arabia. The self-perceived confidence of students was assessed by using Endodontic Self-Perceived Confidence Scale (ESCS). The students' endodontic clinical performance scores were obtained from the department head. Data were analyzed by IBM SPSS-23.0. Descriptive statistics were recorded as percentages, frequencies, and mean. Chi-square test was used for gender-wise comparison of all items of ESCS, Student t-test was used for comparing means and Pearson correlation coefficient was utilized for exploring correlation. Results: Over all response rate was 91.8%. Students exhibited the highest confidence level for achieving rubber dam isolation (4.57±0.66) while the lowest confidence level was documented for the treatment of teeth with immature apices (2.82±0.95). The mean self-confidence score of male students on ESCS was higher than the female students (P-value=0.18). However, mean endodontic clinic score of female students was significantly higher than the male students (P-value=0.02). The insignificant correlation was noted between the students' mean confidence scores and endodontic clinical performance scores (P-value=0.82). Conclusions: The insignificant correlation between self-perceived confidence and clinic scores raises significant caveats for utilizing the self-assessment in the aforementioned group. Hence, the students should be adequately trained in self-assessment to prepare them for lifetime learning. Additionally, clinical instructors by creating a supportive learning environment should help students to deal with their shortcomings.

Recurrence of Invasive Cervical Resorption after six years of Nonsurgical and Surgical management by Bioceramic-Material.

Invasive cervical resorption (ICR) is a phenomenon of unknown etiology that results in the loss of hard dental tissue. To have a successful outcome for a tooth affected by ICR, correct diagnosis and management are needed. With the introduction of new biocompatible materials and the advancement of CBCT imaging, these pathologies can be identified and treated with precision, resulting in promising outcomes. This case report aims to present the management of maxillary central incisors diagnosed with external ICR, treated with bioceramic root repair material, and followed-up to six years.

Cone-beam computed tomographic analysis of root canal morphology of permanent mandibular incisors - Prevalence and related factors.

Objectives: To investigate the prevalence of additional canals and the occurrence of oval canals in apical third area of mandibular permanent incisors of Saudi sub-population. Methods: This study was conducted from November 2020 to May 2021 at College of Dentistry, Qassim University. For the investigation purpose of this study, 314 scans were analyzed within the age limits of 13 to 70 years. The root canal morphology, presence of oval canals, number of roots, and prevalence of various canal configurations based on age, gender and bilateral symmetry were recorded. The obtained data was statistically analyzed using SPSS software. Results: The mandibular central incisors (CI) exhibited, significant difference between Type-I, II, III and IV canal configurations and Type-I, II, III and V canal configurations (p < 0.05). For the mandibular lateral incisor (LI), significant difference was found between Type-I, II, III, IV and VII canal configurations (p < 0.05). The cumulative prevalence of oval canals in mandibular incisors was found to be 46.6%. For both mandibular CI and LI, the prevalence of Type-I canals was significantly higher in males as compared to females (p < 0.05). Conversely, significantly higher prevalence of Type-III canals was noted for females as compared to males (p < 0.05). No significant difference was found in the prevalence of different canal configurations on the left and the right side of the mouth. Conclusion: In this study, multiple canals were prominently recognized with Type-III mandibular incisors dominating this feature. Oval canals were predominantly found in single canal especially Type-III. This research suggests variability in canal morphology among different populations. Knowledge of these aberrant canal anatomies is useful for the clinician to achieve a favorable endodontic outcome.

Management of concomitant strip and apical perforation in mandibular first molar.

Iatrogenic perforation is a complication that can occur during endodontic treatment. If left untreated, it adversely affects the prognosis of the tooth. The use of optimal magnification and appropriate repair material help in achieving favourable outcome. The current case report illustrates the management of concomitant strip and apical perforation in the mesial canals of lower first molar of 13 years old paediatric patient. The management of perforations was done with MTA under 25x magnification of a dental operating microscope. The periapical radiograph and clinical investigations revealed complete bone formation at the furcal area adjacent to the repaired strip perforation and ossification of the apical lesion indicating a favourable healing outcome at 18 months of follow up.

Fiber reinforced composite supported restoration of congenitally missing tooth by minimally invasive approach: Two years follow-up.

Maxillary lateral incisor is the most frequent congenitally missing anterior tooth of the permanent dentition. The absence of the anterior tooth can adversely affect the production/transmission of speech sounds, mental health, and facial aesthetics of an individual. Considering this, prosthetic rehabilitation of missing front tooth is important. The treatment alternatives include implant supported single crown, conventional fixed partial dentures (FPDs), and resin bonded FPDs that are unilaterally or bilaterally supported by metallic wings. However, with the development in adhesive dentistry fiber reinforced composite (FRC) supported FPDs have provided a workable substitute for traditional techniques because of their improved esthetics, minimal invasiveness, less cost, enhanced bond strength, and revocable nature. The current case, reports the two years follow up of twenty-four years old female patient, for whom the congenitally absent maxillary right lateral incisor was restored with FRC supported FPD.

Team-based learning versus Traditional lecture-based learning: An investigation of students' perceptions and academic achievements.

OBJECTIVES: Evaluation of TBL from students' perspective has been done extensively, but limited studies have analyzed the effect of TBL on students' academic performance. Objectives of the present study were to assess students' perceptions about team-based learning versus traditional lectures and then to compare with students' grades in both TBL and lecture-based assessments. METHODS: Cross-sectional descriptive study which included 147 dentistry students was conducted between March and June, 2020 at Qassim University, Saudi Arabia. A self-composed 10 item closed ended instrument was administered through electronic mail. One block from each academic year was selected randomly and organizers were requested to provide grades of students in both TBL and lecture-based exams. Grades from A to F were determined as achievement indicator and were compared statistically using Kruskal Wallis, Tuckey Posthoc and Chi-square tests. RESULTS: A total of 120 students (81.6%) responded to the survey, and mean perception score was (3.29±0.94). Perceptions of students, regarding TBL as a learning strategy were comparatively superior as compared to the lectures. Students scored significantly higher grades in TBL exams (p<0.05) as compared to lecture-based assessments. Gender-wise analysis indicated that female students secured significantly higher grades in the TBL. CONCLUSION: We conclude that dentistry students perceived TBL as superior teaching and learning strategy compared to traditional lectures. Their perception was verified by their significant higher academic achievements in the assessments for the coursework taught by utilizing team-based learning strategy.

Retrospective quality assurance audit of Lateral Cephalometric Radiographs at postgraduate teaching hospital.

OBJECTIVE: The objective of our audit was to assess the quality of lateral cephalometric radiographs by investigating the percentage of lateral cephalometric radiographic images that satisfied the good quality standards. METHODS: The standard-based retrospective audit was conducted at Riphah International University, Pakistan, from April to September 2018. The sample size was 50 radiographs that were randomly selected from the radiographs taken over one year. The radiographs were graded according to the standards set by the National Radiation Protection Board by two evaluators after the necessary calibration. Moreover, the percentages of images that met the criteria set by the Royal College of Surgeons of England were identified. The data analysis was carried out by the SPSS software version 23. RESULTS: Out of the 50 radiographs, thirty-one were Grade-I, sixteen were Grade-II and three radiographs were Grade-III. Furthermore, out of the criteria set by Royal College, one criterion met the 100% standard that was correct head positioning. Less frequent errors were comprised of poor visibility of soft tissue structures (16%), teeth not properly occluded (14%), Incorrect positioning of labels (12%), Sella and Nasion not visible (8%). According to the results of the quality assurance audit, the radiographs fell short of the required standards. CONCLUSION: Quality assurance by periodic auditing is important to yield radiographs with maximum diagnostic value, minimal errors, and avoid unnecessary radiation exposure by repeat radiographs. Recommendations were made for the formulation and implementation of comprehensive radiation protection regulations, at all the Dental institutes of Pakistan.

Relationship between Desiccation Tolerance and Biofilm Formation in Shiga Toxin-Producing Escherichia coli.

Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli (STEC) is a major concern in the food industry and requires effective control measures to prevent foodborne illnesses. Previous studies have demonstrated increased difficulty in the control of biofilm-forming STEC. Desiccation, achieved through osmotic stress and water removal, has emerged as a potential antimicrobial hurdle. This study focused on 254 genetically diverse E. coli strains collected from cattle, carcass hides, hide-off carcasses, and processing equipment. Of these, 141 (55.51%) were STEC and 113 (44.48%) were generic E. coli. The biofilm-forming capabilities of these isolates were assessed, and their desiccation tolerance was investigated to understand the relationships between growth temperature, relative humidity (RH), and bacterial survival. Only 28% of the STEC isolates had the ability to form biofilms, compared to 60% of the generic E. coli. Stainless steel surfaces were exposed to different combinations of temperature (0 °C or 35 °C) and relative humidity (75% or 100%), and the bacterial attachment and survival rates were measured over 72 h and compared to controls. The results revealed that all the strains exposed to 75% relative humidity (RH) at any temperature had reduced growth (p < 0.001). In contrast, 35 °C and 100% RH supported bacterial proliferation, except for isolates forming the strongest biofilms. The ability of E. coli to form a biofilm did not impact growth reduction at 75% RH. Therefore, desiccation treatment at 75% RH at temperatures of 0 °C or 35 °C holds promise as a novel antimicrobial hurdle for the removal of biofilm-forming E. coli from challenging-to-clean surfaces and equipment within food processing facilities.

Comparative in-vivo bond failure rate of orthodontic brackets when bracket base is treated with micro-abrasive blasting vs. acid etching: eighteen month randomized control trial and scanning electron microscope study.

Background: The aim of this study was threefold. Firstly, it aimed to introduce and detail a novel method for chemically etching the bases of stainless-steel orthodontic brackets. Secondly, the study sought to investigate the structural alterations within the brackets' microstructure following chemical etching compared to those with sandblasted bases, using electron microscopy analysis. Lastly, the study aimed to evaluate and compare the long-term durability and survivability of orthodontic brackets with chemically etched bases versus those with sandblasted bases, both bonded using the conventional acid etch technique with Transbond XT adhesive, over an 18-month follow-up period. Methods: The study was a randomized clinical control trial with triple blinding and split-mouth study design and consisted of two groups. The brackets in the sandblasted group were prepared by sandblasting the intaglio surface of the base of the bracket with 50 µm SiO2 particles. Hydrofluoric acid was used to roughen the base in the acid-etched group. The bases of the brackets were viewed under an electron microscope to analyze the topographical changes. Results: A total of 5,803 brackets (3,006 acid-etch, 2,797 sandblasted) in 310 patients were bonded, in a split-mouth design by the same operator. The patients were followed for 18 months. The failure rate of 2.59% and 2.7% was noted in an acid-etched and sandblasted group, respectively. There was a close approximation of curves in the Kaplan-Meier plot, and the survival distribution of the two groups in the log-rank (Mantel-Cox) test was insignificant; x2 = 0.062 (P value = 0.804). Conclusion: Acid etching if the bases of the brackets can be used as an alternative to sandblasting furthermore acid etching can be performed on the chair side.

Clinical Difficulties Related to Direct Composite Restorations: A Multinational Survey.

AIMS: Composite materials are widely used in dentistry for direct tooth restorations. However, they are highly sensitive to the working technique employed during the restorative procedure. Even minor procedural errors can have a significant impact on the quality including the longevity of the restoration. Hence the aim of this study was to determine the material preferences and analyse the clinical problems associated with direct composite restorations in a cohort of dentists. METHODS: A 20-item online questionnaire was created in English and administered 1830 general dentists and specialists in 13 countries. The first section of the questionnaire included four questions to elicit demographic data, and the second section comprised 16 questions focused on material preferences for conservative restorations, durability of composite restorations, and the most challenging stages the dentists faced during the composite restorative procedures. RESULTS: Respondents decided most often to use composite materials for the tooth restorations (OR 997.4, 95% CI 233.8-4254.8, P value <.001). Most respondents indicated that the durability of composite restorations was approximately 7 to 10 years (41.5%). Among the factors affecting durability, maintenance of a dry cavity was the most often reported reason (47.1%) and the foremost challenge faced by dentists (61.0%) during the composite restorative procedures. CONCLUSIONS: Our study confirmed that resin-based composites are the most popular material for direct restoration in many countries. Although working with this material is difficult and involves multiple steps, maintaining a dry cavity during bonding, and material application may affect the therapeutic success and durability of these restorations. Clinicians need to be attentive to this issue and be prepared to adapt their decision-making and consider opting for alternative restorative materials, if appropriate.

Awareness of possible complications associated with direct composite restorations: A multinational survey among dentists from 13 countries with meta-analysis.

OBJECTIVES: Resin-based composites (RBCs) evolved into favoured materials for teeth restorations, marking a significant change in dental practice. Despite many advantages, RBCs exhibit various limitations in their physical and chemical properties. Therefore, we assessed the dentists' awareness of possible complications after direct composite restorations and their opinions about this material. METHODS: The online questionnaire was created in English in May 2023. A 16-item survey was dedicated to general dentists and specialists. The first section included four questions related to demographic characteristics. The second section comprised twelve questions and focused on awareness of potential side effects of composite restorations, the most crucial advantages and disadvantages of composite resins, and the frequency of experienced clinical complications after the application of composite materials. RESULTS: A total of 1830 dentists from 13 countries took part in the survey. Dentists most often declared awareness of low adhesion to the dentine (77.5 %) and, most rarely, solubility in oral fluids (42.6 %). Aesthetics was identified as the main advantage of composite fillings (79 %), followed by the possibility of repair (59 %) and adhesion to enamel (57 %). Polymerisation shrinkage was a major disadvantage for most countries (70 % overall). Analysing the declared potential clinical complications for all countries, statistically significant findings were obtained for marginal discolouration (OR=2.982, 95 % CI: 1.321-6.730, p-value=0.009) and borderline significance for secondary caries (OR=1.814, 95 % CI: 0.964-3.415, p-value=0.065). CONCLUSIONS: Dentists value aesthetics and repairability but are aware of shrinkage and experience discolouration. The issue of toxicity and solubility seems to be the least known to dentists. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Dentists should use RBCs with critical caution due to possible side effects. Despite the undoubted aesthetics of direct composite restorations, it is necessary to remember potential clinical complications such as marginal discolouration or secondary caries.

Morphometric relationships in mesio-buccal roots of maxillary first molars in Saudi subpopulation: A CBCT study.

This CBCT-based study analysed morphometric relationships in Mesio-Buccal (MB) roots of maxillary first molars (MFM). 133 MFM with two MB canals were assessed and classified using Vertucci's classification. MB roots' length and MB1-MB2 canals inter-orifice distances (IOD) were noted. The data were analysed using SPSS software. The most frequently present canal was type IV (59.4%) followed by type II (40.6%). Mean MB roots' length for canals exhibiting type IV was 9.26 ± 0.21 mm and of those exhibiting type II was 12.8 ± 0.42 mm. Statistically significant relationship was found between MB root length and canal type. Mean IOD for type II and type IV canals was 2.4 ± 0.47 and 3.8 ± 0.21 mm, respectively. Statistically significant relationship was found between IOD and canal type. Length of MB root and IOD had a significant association with canal type present in MFM. This knowledge can enhance clinicians' understanding of canal morphology which can increase predictability and success rate of endodontic treatment.

Influence of Root Canal Treatment on Oral-Health-Related Quality of Life (OHRQoL) in Saudi Patients: A Cross-Sectional Study.

Objective This cross-sectional study aimed to assess the influence of root canal treatment on the oral-health-related quality of life (OHRQoL) of patients in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA). The data on KSA's population are significantly limited, highlighting the significance of additional research to be carried out in this particular field. Methods The study was conducted at the dental clinics of the College of Dentistry, Qassim University, from January to June 2022. A total of 112 patients who had undergone endodontic therapy (ET) for teeth with irreversible pulpitis were included. Demographic data and treatment procedures were recorded. The patients' responses to the OHIP-14 questionnaire were analyzed to assess their OHRQoL. The scores were converted into qualitative categories (good, moderate, poor) for classification. Results The majority of patients (59.8%) reported a good OHRQoL after ET. Physical pain was the only variable where more than 50% of patients reported experiencing pain. Older age and smoking status were significantly associated with a poorer OHRQoL. However, no significant gender differences in OHRQoL were observed. Conclusion ET had a positive impact on the OHRQoL of patients in Saudi Arabia. The study highlights the importance of considering patient-centered outcomes, such as OHRQoL, in assessing the success of root canal treatment. Further research with longitudinal designs and randomized controlled trials is needed to better understand the long-term effects of root canal treatment on patients' OHRQoL and to compare them with other dental treatments.

Self-efficacy and Online Learning Readiness of Undergraduate Dental Students in Pakistan During COVID-19 Pandemic.

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the correlation between general self-efficacy and online learning readiness among Pakistani undergraduate dental students. STUDY DESIGN: Cross-sectional study. Place and Duration of the Study: Riphah International University, Islamabad, between September 2020 and March 2021. METHODOLOGY: Using cluster sampling, three dental colleges of Islamabad and Rawalpindi were selected. Electronic questionnaires were sent to 750 students. The questionnaire was comprised of two instruments, General Self-Efficacy Scale (GSES), and Online Learning Readiness Scale (OLRS). GSES had 10-items with response measurement on four-point Likert scale, while the OLRS had 18 items in five different domains measured by five-point Likert scale. Data were analysed using SPSS-23. Correlation between dependent variables was calculated using linear regression analysis. RESULTS: The response rate was 59.3% with a predominant response from female students (82.2%) compared with male students (17.8%). The majority of responses were recorded from third year students (27.9%). The year four students' scores for GSE, computer and internet self-efficacy, and self-directed learning differed significantly from other students. The overall mean GSE score was 29.37+4.57. Regression indicated a low degree of correlation between GSE and the five domains of OLRS with r2 values ranging from 0.12 to 0.32. CONCLUSION: A weak to moderate correlation was found between self-efficacy and the five dimensions of online learning readiness among Pakistani undergraduate dental students as depicted by the r-values. KEY WORDS: Cross-sectional studies, Dental education, Dental students, Dentistry, Efficacy, Online learning, Questionnaire.