Universitat Internacional de Catalunya

Endodontics Research I

Endodontics Research I
4
15358
1
First semester
OB
Main language of instruction: English

Other languages of instruction: Catalan, Spanish

Teaching staff


Dr. ABELLA SANS, Francesc - franabella@uic.es

Introduction

Currently, dentistry is constantly evolving thanks to the application of new technologies that improve the effectiveness and precision of treatments. One of the fields that has experienced a significant transformation is endodontics, thanks to the incorporation of digitalization in various aspects of the therapeutic process. This course is designed to provide students with the knowledge and skills needed to utilize the most advanced digital tools in the diagnosis, planning, and treatment of endodontic pathologies.

During this course, participants will explore the latest innovations in digital technology applied to endodontics, including digital imaging, three-dimensional (3D) visualization techniques, computer-aided design (CAD), and new tools that enhance precision in root canal treatment. Through a combination of practical exercises, readings, and clinical cases, students will learn how to integrate these digital tools into their daily practice, improving their ability to perform more precise, efficient, and personalized treatments.

The main objective of this course is for dental professionals to develop a deep understanding of how digital technologies can optimize endodontic treatments, providing improvements not only in the quality of patient care but also in the patient's clinical experience. By the end of the course, students will be able to master the available digital tools, providing a high-quality endodontic service based on evidence and technological innovation

Pre-course requirements

There are no prerequisites

Objectives

  • Acquire basic and advanced knowledge of digital tools applied to endodontics.

    • Understand the fundamental principles of digitalization in dentistry and its specific application in endodontics.

  • Learn how to use digital imaging technology for endodontic diagnosis.

    • Be able to interpret digital radiographs, cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT), and other 3D imaging techniques in the context of endodontics.

  • Master computer-aided design (CAD) for the planning and customization of endodontic treatments.

    • Understand and apply CAD in creating guides for precise root canal localization.

  • Integrate the use of real-time feedback systems to improve treatment precision.

    • Utilize digital control and monitoring tools during endodontic procedures to enhance efficiency and safety.

  • Develop practical skills in digital endodontics, including the preparation and obturation of root canals with digital tools.

    • Perform endodontic treatments using the latest technologies, such as motorized systems and computer-assisted preparation tools.

  • Critically analyze and interpret digital data for clinical decision-making.

    • Evaluate digital images and data obtained during treatments to make informed therapeutic decisions.

  • Encourage continuous improvement through the use of emerging technologies in endodontics.

    • Stay updated on technological advancements and investigate the impact of digital innovations in endodontics.

  • Promote the integration of digitalization into everyday clinical endodontic practice.

    • Implement digital tools in daily practice to improve the efficiency, precision, and quality of endodontic treatments.

  • Develop a deep understanding of the advantages and limitations of digital technologies in endodontics.

    • Recognize the benefits and potential challenges of digital integration, as well as best practices for overcoming them.

  • Encourage the use of digitalization to improve patient experience.

    • Apply digital tools to enhance the accuracy and speed of treatments, ensuring reduced recovery time and improved patient satisfaction.

Competences/Learning outcomes of the degree programme

  • CN01 - Identify with precision the most advanced technical processes related to endodontics.
  • CP05 - Apply advanced endodontic treatments appropriately to any patient, respecting the fundamental rights of equality between men and women, and the promotion of human rights and the values ​​of a culture of peace and democratic values; using language that avoids androcentrism and stereotypes.
  • HB04 - Classify endodontic cases as easy, moderate or complex.
  • HB05 - Apply multidisciplinary knowledge acquired from other areas (periodontics, restorative and orthodontics) in an endodontic problem.
  • HB06 - Quickly and effectively resolve endodontic pain situations.
  • HB07 - Combine prevention and treatment of the most common problems in the field of endodontics (perforations, steps, fractured instruments, etc.).
  • HB10 - Apply the most suitable materials for pulp regeneration treatments, vital pulp therapy and dental traumatology.
  • HB16 - Integrate radiological advances in three dimensions in the analysis of different endodontic situations.

Learning outcomes of the subject

  • - Diagnosis and Treatment Plan in Endodontics LEARNING OUTCOMES From title – CN01, HB03, HB05, HB12, HB14, HB18, HB20 Of matter – The students will be able to: 1. Solve the complications that undergraduate students have during their preclinical practices. 2. Make public presentations of their own clinical cases based on scientific literature, through the correct use of scientific terminology. 3. Debate and reason endodontic clinical techniques before a specialized and non-specialized audience in a clear and unambiguous way. 4. Determine the role of an endodontist within an interdisciplinary team. 5. Successfully plan, through prior analysis, any endodontic problem, as well as those directly related to restorative and aesthetic dentistry. 6. Identify and organize endodontic material and instruments in a precise and orderly manner. 7. Assess different therapeutic options for pulpo-periapical pathology according to the scientific literature. 8. Develop different isolation strategies for the surgical field to carry out a successful endodontic and restorative treatment
  • - Contemporary Scientific Evidence and Research Methods - LEARNING OUTCOMES Title – CN03, HB01, HB02, HB15, CP01 Subject – Students will be able to: 1. Classify the different phases of the research process in the field of life sciences health. 2. Distinguish between the different quantitative and qualitative research models, identifying the main advantages and limitations of the two models. 3. Structure an appropriate bibliographic search strategy in the main databases related to health sciences. 4. Access the documentary sources identified in the bibliographic search, download the documents and carry out a critical and rigorous analysis. 5. Describe the basic concepts related to sampling variables and obtaining quantitative data. 6. Design a research protocol based on the scientific method. 7. Justify the conduct of a research based on a prior presentation of objectives, questions and hypotheses related to the topic to be discussed. 8. Recognize the different types of scientific articles, their structure and characteristics and their publication standards.

Syllabus

  • Introduction to Digital Endodontics

    • Definition and evolution of digital endodontics.
    • Benefits of digitalization in endodontic diagnosis and treatment.
    • Integration of digital technology into clinical practice.

  • Digital Imaging Technologies Applied to Endodontics

    • Digital radiography and advanced imaging techniques.
    • Understanding and application of cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) for root canal morphology.
    • 3D imaging and its use in precise visualization of endodontic treatment.

  • Computer-Aided Design (CAD) for Endodontics

    • Introduction to computer-aided design and its application in endodontics.
    • Creation and customization of guides for root canal localization.
    • Application of CAD for root canal preparation and post-endodontic restorations.

  • Motors and Digital Tools in Endodontic Treatment

    • Use of rotary motors and computer-assisted instruments for root canal preparation.
    • Application of digital tools for precision in opening and cleaning root canals.
    • Strategies for improving the efficiency and safety of endodontic treatments.

  • Real-Time Feedback Systems and Digital Control

    • Use of sensors and real-time feedback systems to monitor the endodontic procedure.
    • Digital supervision to improve treatment precision and avoid accidents.
    • Protocols to optimize the durability and safety of treatments.

  • Digital Management of Patients and Their Data

    • Storage and management of digital clinical data for patients.
    • Leveraging digital tools for patient history tracking and organization.
    • Digital communication tools for patient interaction and post-treatment follow-up.

  • Clinical Cases and Practical Applications

    • Analysis of clinical cases using digital images (radiographs, CBCT, etc.).
    • Application of digital tools in practical situations: root canal treatments, retreatments, endodontic surgery.
    • Study of advanced clinical cases to deepen knowledge of digital technology use.

  • Ethical and Legal Considerations in the Use of Digital Technologies in Endodontics

    • Ethical aspects of implementing new digital technologies in dental practice.
    • Regulations and guidelines on the use of digital images and patient data.
    • Data protection and privacy in digital management of patient information.

  • Trends and Future Innovations in Digital Endodontics

    • Review of the latest technological innovations in endodontics (AI, 3D printing, etc.).
    • How artificial intelligence can improve endodontic diagnostics and treatments.
    • Future perspectives: the future of digital endodontics and its application in clinical practice.

Teaching and learning activities

In person



The methodology of the Digital Endodontics course is based on an active and participatory approach, combining theoretical learning with practical experience and the development of technical skills in a clinical environment. The training is focused on the acquisition of digital competencies that students can directly apply to their professional clinical practice.

  1. Theoretical-Practical Learning:

    • Theoretical classes on the fundamental concepts of digital endodontics and applied technologies.
    • Laboratory practices and clinical sessions to develop technical skills in the use of digital tools.

  2. Active Methodology:

    • Students will face real and simulated clinical cases where they must make decisions based on the use of digital technology.
    • Active participation in case discussions and analysis of digital images (radiographs, CBCT, 3D) to foster critical thinking.

  3. Use of Simulation Technologies:

    • Implementation of digital simulators for root canal preparation and obturation, allowing students to practice without patient risk.
    • Digital planning software for creating treatment guides and customized restorations, where students can experiment with different treatment scenarios.

  4. Continuous Supervision and Feedback:

    • Direct supervision from the professor during clinical practices and laboratory sessions.
    • Personalized feedback during the learning process, both in the use of technologies and in clinical decision-making.

  5. Research and Continuous Update:

    • Encouragement of constant updating on new technologies through the analysis of scientific articles and participation in seminars.
    • Independent study of emerging digital tools in the field of endodontics.
Training Activities:

  1. Lectures and seminars:

    • Theoretical sessions on the fundamental principles of digital endodontics.
    • Seminars discussing the latest advances in the use of digital technologies in endodontics.

  2. Practical laboratory sessions on digital endodontics:

    • Practical workshops where students will use digital tools such as rotary motors, digital feedback systems, and digital radiographs for endodontic treatments.
    • Practical exercises for creating surgical guides using CAD software and planning customized treatments.

  3. Analysis of digital images (CBCT, radiographs, 3D):

    • Activities where students analyze 3D images and digital radiographs to make precise diagnoses and establish treatment plans.
    • Use of specialized software to interpret tomography and locate root canals.

  4. Study and discussion of real clinical cases:

    • Students will work in multidisciplinary teams to analyze and discuss real clinical cases, applying digital tools to make therapeutic decisions.
    • Clinical case presentations by students, highlighting the use of digital technology in diagnosis and treatment.

  5. Simulation in 3D models and real-time feedback:

    • Use of digital simulators for root canal treatments, with real-time feedback to improve precision and efficiency.
    • Practical exercises where students can experiment with real-time feedback software to control the rotary motor and root canal preparation.

  6. Continuous evaluation through projects and clinical practices:

    • Students will submit research papers, projects on technological advances in digital endodontics, and detailed reports of the clinical practices performed.
    • Continuous evaluations based on direct observation of students' performance in digital patient treatment and the use of digital tools in laboratory practices.

  7. Research and independent work:

    • Encouragement of searching scientific literature on advances in digital endodontics, as well as the preparation of reports or presentations on current topics in diagnostic and treatment technology.
    • Group presentations of research or innovative cases related to emerging digital technology in endodontics.

  8. Supervised clinical practice:

    • Students will perform clinical practices under direct supervision, applying digital endodontic techniques to real patients, to consolidate what they have learned.
    • Supervision of the use of technologies in real-time to ensure the correct application of digital tools.
TRAINING ACTIVITY METHODOLOGY
Master classes: They are of an expository type in which the teacher presents a topic ensuring the participation of the students. These activities aim to transmit advanced knowledge and activate cognitive processes. Case method for the analysis and resolution of clinical cases: It is an activity that allows students to deliberate under the guidance and participation of teachers. In some activities, the presentation of the case and its resolution are carried out in the same learning unit and on other occasions, the problem is raised in a subsequent session, so that the students learn, reflect and conclude on that problem. Students are encouraged to put the acquired knowledge into practice, to have the opportunity to integrate new knowledge and face the complexity of real situations. Practical class: Approaches, resources and procedural and practical knowledge are transmitted to students to be able to develop activities within a real context. Student participation is prioritized through practical exercises on the theory taught. Theoretical class: Expository and explanatory sessions of the contents by the teaching staff. This learning methodology will allow the use of audiovisual media to support the explanation of the contents. The student body will be able to interact or actively participate.
Master classes: They are of an expository type in which the teacher presents a topic ensuring the participation of the students. These activities aim to transmit advanced knowledge and activate cognitive processes. Case method for the analysis and resolution of clinical cases: It is an activity that allows students to deliberate under the guidance and participation of teachers. In some activities, the presentation of the case and its resolution are carried out in the same learning unit and on other occasions, the problem is raised in a subsequent session, so that the students learn, reflect and conclude on that problem. Students are encouraged to put the acquired knowledge into practice, to have the opportunity to integrate new knowledge and face the complexity of real situations. Practical class: Approaches, resources and procedural and practical knowledge are transmitted to students to be able to develop activities within a real context. Student participation is prioritized through practical exercises on the theory taught. Theoretical class: Expository and explanatory sessions of the contents by the teaching staff. This learning methodology will allow the use of audiovisual media to support the explanation of the contents. The student body will be able to interact or actively participate.

Evaluation systems and criteria

In person



GENERAL EVALUATION CRITERIA:
  • Competence in handling digital tools: Evaluate whether the student is capable of correctly using all available digital tools (digital radiographs, diagnostic software, CBCT, etc.).
  • Accuracy in diagnosis: How the student applies knowledge to diagnose and appropriately plan a digital treatment.
  • Quality of the treatment performed: The ability to carry out high-quality endodontic treatments, with a clinical and digital approach, and their skill in managing clinical cases.
  • Effectiveness in communicating results: The student must be able to present their decisions and treatments clearly, using digital tools to document and communicate the process to other professionals.
Combined Evaluation System:

  • Theoretical Evaluation:
    A written exam that covers all theoretical aspects of the subject. Students must demonstrate both general and specific knowledge of digital techniques in endodontics.
    Total weight: 50%

  • Practical Evaluation:
    Evaluation of a practical case, either on a real patient (under supervision) or a digital clinical simulation. Both the technique and the application of acquired knowledge will be assessed.
    Total weight: 50%

Bibliography and resources

Recommended Bibliography:

  1. Books:

    • "Endodontics: Principles and Practice" (10th edition) - Nelson, M. M., & Cox, D. M.
      • A fundamental book for understanding the general principles of endodontics, with a large section dedicated to digital techniques applied to this discipline.
    • "Textbook of Endodontics" - Nisha Garg, Amit Garg
      • A comprehensive text on endodontics with updates on the latest digital innovations applied in this field.
    • "Digital Dentistry: A Comprehensive Guide to Technology" - D. Frank, M. M. S. Peixoto, & S. Oliveira
      • Provides an overview of digital advances in dentistry, including specific topics for endodontics.

  2. Scientific Articles and Journals:

    • Journal of Endodontics(JOE)
      • Leading academic journal in the field of endodontics that includes research articles on technological innovations and digital practices.
    • International Endodontic Journal
      • Publishes research and review articles on the latest advances in endodontics, including the use of digital technology.
    • "The Role of CBCT in Endodontics" - British Dental Journal
      • An article exploring the importance of cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) in endodontics, with a special focus on its digital application.

  3. Books on Digital Technologies:

    • "3D Imaging in Endodontics" - S. Al-Hamdan, H. A. Yasin, & M. F. Ahmed
      • A book dedicated to 3D imaging techniques in endodontics, ideal for students interested in digital diagnosis and treatment planning.
    • "Digital Workflow in Endodontics: From Diagnosis to Treatment" - S. G. Patel, N. R. Shemesh
      • This book discusses the digital workflow in endodontics, from diagnosis to treatment.
Digital Resources and Tools:

  1. Digital Planning and Diagnosis Software:

    • Dentsply Sirona – SIDEXIS
      Software that allows the visualization of digital radiographs and CBCT scans, essential for digital diagnosis and treatment.
    • Planmeca Romexis
      Advanced software for capturing and processing digital images in endodontics, with tools for 3D visualization and root canal analysis.

  2. Learning and Training Platforms:

    • Coursera - Digital Dentistry Course An online course exploring digital technology applications in dentistry, with a special focus on endodontics.
    • Udemy - Digital Endodontics: A Hands-on Approach A platform offering practical courses on the use of digital technology in endodontics.

  3. Digital Simulators:

    • Simodont
      A 3D dental simulator that allows students to practice digital endodontic techniques in a virtual environment.
    • Endo Vision
      A simulator specifically for endodontic treatments, including simulations of root canals and their complications.

  4. Treatment Planning Applications:

    • EasyEndo
      A mobile app for planning root canal treatments and digitally tracking each case.
    • EndoPlanner
      Software for tracking endodontic cases, with tools for registering digital images, radiographs, and diagnoses.

  5. Professional Development Resources:

    • Dental XP
      An educational platform with lectures and resources related to digital endodontics.
    • PubMed
      A database for consulting scientific articles on the latest advances in digital endodontics.
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