A study on digital tooth preparation assessment software in undergraduate pre-clinical skills teaching

Aims This research aims to evaluate the effectiveness and efficiency of the PrepCheck digital system as an additional feedback tool in enhancing undergraduate dental students' tooth preparation skills and its potential to enhance students' learning experience.

A total of 55 BDS3 students attending the "Crowns Course" and divided into three groups participated in the study. One group (n = 24) was randomly selected as the case group and received feedback using the digital tooth preparation analysis system, PrepCheck, alongside standard visual assessment. The other two groups (n = 31) served as controls and only received standard visual feedback. All students' tooth preparations for the final test were digitally assessed using PrepCheck against a faculty-approved master preparation. The tooth preparation quality was compared between the case and control groups, employing two distinct grading methods. Additionally, a questionnaire was provided to students who used the digital system to gather their feedback.

The findings revealed a positive trend in performance among the case group when using the PrepCheck system. However, the analysis showed no statistically significant differences between the groups in both the tutor assessment only and tutor assessment in addition to using the PrepCheck report. Despite the absence of statistically significant differences, qualitative feedback from participants indicated a favourable reception of the digital system.

While the PrepCheck digital system displayed potential in complementing traditional teaching methods and enhancing the learning experience, its integration posed challenges, particularly concerning time constraints. Further research is recommended to investigate further the potential longer-term effects and potential useful applications for integrating digital systems like PrepCheck into dental education.