The effect of operator experience in locating additional canals in maxillary molars

The purpose of this study was to determine the influence of operator experience on the ability to locate and fill extra canals in maxillary first and second molars in vivo. The number of canals located and filled from maxillary first and second molars was recorded from three endodontic residents during the first 6 months of their training, and then compared to the last 6 months of their training in a 2-yr endodontic residency program. Data from each resident was collected and compiled together. The study showed a statistically greater percentage of additional canals located and filled by residents in their last 6 months, as compared to the same residents in their first 6 months in maxillary first and second molars (p < 0.05). Therefore, operator experience was found to improve the ability to locate and fill additional canals in maxillary first and second molars.