Dental Decision Simulation (DDSim): Development of a virtual training environment

Area of Science:

• Dental Education
• Health Informatics
• Simulation-Based Learning

Background:

• Case-based simulations are effective for learning and behavior change.
• Electronic dental records (EDR) offer a platform for training.
• Standardized learning environments are crucial for skill development.

Purpose of the Study:

• To design and develop Dental Decision Simulation (DDSim), a web-based EDR simulation.
• To train dentists in making evidence-based treatment planning decisions.
• To align dental treatment plans with current evidence-based guidelines.

Main Methods:

• DDSim development involved creating virtual patient visits and a feedback mechanism.
• A 2-arm, clinic-randomized controlled pilot study evaluated DDSim's impact.
• Outcomes were measured by comparing pre- and post-intervention EDR treatment data.

Main Results:

• No significant difference in behavior change was observed between DDSim intervention and control groups.
• The study did not demonstrate that DDSim led to greater adherence to evidence-based guidelines.

Conclusions:

• DDSim offers a standardized, low-risk environment for developing dental treatment planning skills.
• Simulation-based training can complement learning from live patients.
• Further research is required to investigate DDSim's effectiveness in driving behavior change.