Smartphone application-based augmented reality for pre-clinical dental implant placement training: a pilot study

Area of Science:

• Dental Implantology
• Surgical Technology
• Augmented Reality Applications

Background:

• Precise dental implant placement is crucial for functional and aesthetic success.
• Digital technologies like computer-assisted implant surgery (CAIS) enhance outcomes.
• Conventional CAIS methods often involve complex and costly equipment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the utility of smartphone-based augmented reality (AR) for dynamic computer-assisted implant surgery (dCAIS).
• To assess the value addition of AR in pilot drilling angulation and positioning.
• To explore the potential of AR for training dental students in implantology.

Main Methods:

• An in vitro dental model was utilized with 3D datasets.
• Smartphone AR application with intraoral tracking facilitated dCAIS.
• Forty dental students performed pilot drillings, comparing freehand versus AR-guided techniques.

Main Results:

• AR-guided implant drilling showed significantly improved angulation compared to freehand.
• No significant difference in implant position was found between the groups.
• The study analyzed the angulation and position of prepared implant beds.

Conclusions:

• Smartphone-based AR offers an accessible approach to dCAIS in dental implantology.
• This technology shows promise for improving dental student training.
• AR guidance may enhance clinical outcomes, particularly implant angulation.