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Mixed Reality and Haptic-Based Dental Simulator for Tooth Preparation: Research, Development, and Preliminary
Yaning Li1,2,3, Hongqiang Ye1,2,3, Siyu Wu1,2
1Department of Prosthodontics, Peking University School and Hospital of Stomatology, National Center of Stomatology, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, National Engineering Research Center of Oral Biomaterials and Digital Medical Devices, Beijing, China.
This study introduces the Unidental Mixed Reality (MR) dental simulator for tooth preparation. The simulator shows good face validity and is well-received by trainees for enhancing dental skills.
Area of Science:
- Dental Education
- Extended Reality in Medicine
- Surgical Simulation
Background:
- Virtual reality (VR) dental simulators are used for preclinical training.
- Mixed reality (MR) offers significant advantages over VR for extended reality technologies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and evaluate a novel MR and haptic-based dental simulator for tooth preparation.
- To assess the face validity of the new MR dental simulator.
Main Methods:
- Developed an MR dental simulator integrating a head-mounted display (HMD), force feedback handles, and software.
- Recruited 34 participants (17 novices, 17 skilled) for tooth preparation simulation.
- Collected feedback via questionnaires on user experience, hardware, and software.
Main Results:
- 74% of participants were satisfied with the Unidental MR Simulator.
- 90% agreed it stimulated learning interest, and 82% were willing to use it for future training.
- No significant differences were found between novice and skilled groups, except novices found it easier to use.
Conclusions:
- The Unidental MR Simulator demonstrates good face validity for tooth preparation training.
- The simulator enhances resemblance to clinical environments, improving dental skills training.
- Further improvements in patient positioning can optimize the training experience.
