Alignment Between Classroom Education and Clinical Practice of Root Canal Treatment Among Dental Practitioners in China: Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract BackgroundThis cross-sectional study assessed the perceived alignment between preclinical education and clinical practice in root canal treatment (RCT) among dental practitioners in China, aiming to identify systemic gaps in dental curricula and their clinical implica...

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Bibliographic Details
Main Authors: XinYue Ma, JingShi Huang
Format: Article
Language:English
Published: JMIR Publications 2025-07-01
Series:JMIR Medical Education
Online Access:https://mededu.jmir.org/2025/1/e65534
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Summary:Abstract BackgroundThis cross-sectional study assessed the perceived alignment between preclinical education and clinical practice in root canal treatment (RCT) among dental practitioners in China, aiming to identify systemic gaps in dental curricula and their clinical implications. ObjectiveDental professionals in Eastern Coastal China. This study distributed questionnaires through hospital dental specialties and medical forums, covering the Southeastern Region of China. MethodsA validated, web-based survey was distributed to 90 dental professionals in Eastern Coastal China, focusing on 9 key stages of RCT, preoperative preparation, intraoperative procedures, postoperative care, and clinician-patient communication. Responses were measured using a 7-point Likert scale to evaluate perceived discrepancies between education and clinical practice. ResultsA total of 83 valid questionnaires were recovered, which revealed significant disparities between academic training and clinical demands. The survey showed that the specialized practitioners identified pronounced mismatches in RCT operative techniques and doctor-patient communication (PPP ConclusionsStructural discrepancies exist in Chinese preclinical RCT education, influenced by factors such as experience level, age, and region. These findings underscore the need for curriculum reforms, emphasizing competency-based training, enhanced simulation technologies, and standardized clinical protocols, particularly in areas like periodontal pathology and communication skills.
ISSN:2369-3762