Evaluation of sawbones training protocol in bone quality classification using tactile sensation

Area of Science:

• Dental Implantology
• Biomaterials Science
• Surgical Training

Background:

• Bone quality is crucial for dental implant success.
• Accurate assessment of bone density by novice practitioners is challenging.
• Tactile sensation during drilling is a key factor in judging bone quality.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effectiveness of a training protocol.
• To improve novice dental practitioners' ability to judge bone density using tactile feedback.
• To assess the impact of training on implant planning accuracy.

Main Methods:

• Twenty-five operators evaluated artificial bone blocks of varying densities (0.08-0.48 g/cm³).
• Tactile feedback during 2-mm twist-drill was assessed using a Visual Analog Scale (VAS).
• Training sessions were implemented, and performance was measured via VAS values and density-sequencing errors over time.

Main Results:

• Significant linear correlations were found between VAS values and actual bone densities.
• General training did not significantly alter VAS evaluation or hardness sequencing.
• Training significantly reduced sequencing errors in operators with lower initial performance.

Conclusions:

• A specific training protocol can enhance bone quality perception in less experienced dentists.
• The training is particularly beneficial for practitioners with poorer initial bone density evaluation skills.
• Improved tactile bone assessment can positively influence dental implantation protocols.