Comparative Evaluation of Hybrid 3D-Printed Models versus Cadaveric Animal Jaws: A Student's Perspective

To get a feedback from students participating in a skill enhancement course where a combination of a 3D-printed mandible with a natural tooth in place of the impacted tooth for surgical training is used and to compare it to an animal jaw model used for the same purpose.

41 participants were enrolled for the study, and extraction procedure was performed on both the bovine jaw and the 3D-printed mandible. Participants evaluated both models using a validated questionnaire to assess the anatomical and operative simulation and to compare its cost effectiveness.

Overall significant differences between the two models were found in the student assessment. Whilst the animal jaw models achieved better results in the haptic feedback of the soft tissue, the 3D-printed models were regarded significantly more realistic with regard to the anatomical correctness, the degree of freedom of movement and the operative simulation.

The 3D-printed models presented a realistic alternative to cadaveric jaw models in the training of operational skills of dental surgeons. Whilst the 3D-printed models received positive feedback from students in a hands-on course, some aspects of the model leave room for improvement.