(PR162) Warm Vertical Condensation and Hydraulic Condensation: A Comparison of Learning Experience and Performance Between Techniques in Preclinical Endodontic Training

Objective: This study assessed the learning experience and performance of preclinical dental students in obturating extracted premolars using Warm Vertical Condensation (WVC) and Hydraulic Condensation (HC).

Methods: A total of 42 students completed root canal treatment and obturations of two premolar teeth mounted in typodonts. The combination of obturation technique (WVC or HC) and type of premolar (maxillary or mandibular) was randomly assigned to all students. The students answered a questionnaire regarding their learning experience and masked instructors graded their projects. Data was statistically analyzed (significance set at 5%).

Results: Regarding the learning experience, 59.7% of students considered it challenging to perform down-pack for WVC, while 40.3% reported difficulty inserting accessory cones for HC. A high perception of the quality of obturation was 62.5% for WVC and 48.6% for HC. Students' self-reported confidence was similar for both techniques, but the difficulty level was higher for WVC. Most students found HC to be faster and simpler compared to WVC but would consider costs before choosing a technique. The presence of voids was similar for both techniques, while the incidence of multiple errors (31%) and overfilling (28.6%) was higher for WVC. Preclinical dental students found WVC more challenging despite its higher perceived quality of obturation, while HC was preferred for its speed and simplicity. HC resulted in fewer errors and overfilling, even though void presence was similar for both techniques.