The American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons Simulation Program

Area of Science:

• Dental anesthesia
• Patient safety
• Medical simulation

Background:

• Patient safety concerns in dental anesthesia are increasing.
• Simulation training is a proposed solution to enhance preparedness for adverse events.

Purpose of the Study:

• To overview challenges in dental anesthesia patient safety.
• To present simulation training as a solution.
• To highlight the unique features of the AAOMS simulation program.

Main Methods:

• Overview of patient safety challenges in dental anesthesia.
• Description of simulation training methodologies.
• Analysis of the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons (AAOMS) simulation program.

Main Results:

• Simulation training can improve preparedness for adverse events.
• The AAOMS program features objective grading and mastery-based learning.
• A low facilitator-to-participant ratio contributes to cost-effectiveness.

Conclusions:

• Simulation training is a viable strategy to address patient safety issues in dental anesthesia.
• The AAOMS program offers a standardized, validated competency course.
• The program's structure supports practical and effective training delivery.