Paper Title
ROLE OF PRECLINICAL TRAINING IN DEVELOPING CONFIDENCE AND COMPETENCE IN ENDODONTIC PROCEDURES

Abstract
This pilot study looked at whether early hands-on training in endodontics (root canal treatment) could help junior dentists feel more confident and capable. Six dentists doing a one-year general dentistry course practiced on extracted teeth in a preclinical lab. Their work was assessed by both themselves and experts before and after the training. The results showed that after this practice period, most of them felt more prepared and performed better. It was also said the practice helped improve their skills, reduced their fear of making mistakes, and gave them a clearer understanding of the procedure. Although there were some challenges, like poor visibility or the use of artificial models, the benefits outweighed the drawbacks. The study concludes that structured preclinical training is very useful in building confidence and competence in endodontics and should be added to dental training programs earlier on. Keywords - Preclinical Training, Endodontics, Confidence, Competence