A Novel Self-Assessment Method for Training Access Cavity on 3D Printed Endodontic Models.

Area of Science:

• Dental Education
• Biomaterials Engineering

Background:

• Traditional preclinical dental training faces challenges with extracted teeth, including availability and ethical concerns.
• Novel technologies are crucial for bridging the gap between preclinical education and clinical practice.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate student satisfaction with a new learning method for access cavity preparation using 3D printed teeth.
• To assess the efficacy of intraoral scanners and mesh processing software for self-assessment in preclinical dental education.

Main Methods:

• Students performed access cavity preparations on affordable, in-house 3D printed teeth.
• Prepared teeth were scanned using an intraoral scanner and analyzed with mesh processing software for self-assessment against a teacher's preparation.
• Student experiences were gathered through a questionnaire.

Main Results:

• The method was perceived as easy, straightforward, and affordable by instructors.
• 73% of students found scan-based assessment more useful than visual inspection.
• 57% of students reported improved understanding of errors, though the 3D printing material was noted as too soft.

Conclusions:

• In-house 3D printed teeth offer a practical solution to limitations of extracted teeth in preclinical training.
• Intraoral scanners and mesh processing software can enhance student self-assessment capabilities.
• This approach addresses availability, variability, and ethical issues associated with traditional preclinical methods.