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Implementation of Virtual Reality in Preclinical Pediatric Dentistry Learning: A Comparison Between Simodont® and
Antonia M Caleya1, Andrea Martín-Vacas2, María Rosa Mourelle-Martínez1
1Department of Dental Clinical Specialties, Faculty of Dentistry, Complutense University of Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain.
Dentistry Journal
|February 25, 2025
Summary
Dental students performed better on acrylic teeth than virtual simulation for preclinical training. Theoretical knowledge did not impact motor skills, and students preferred traditional methods despite positive virtual simulation experiences.
Area of Science:
- Dental Education
- Pediatric Dentistry Training
- Simulation Technology
Background:
- Traditional preclinical pediatric dentistry training uses acrylic or natural teeth.
- Virtual simulation is emerging as a complementary tool for skill development.
- Assessing virtual simulation's impact on preclinical dental education is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- Evaluate the impact of theoretical knowledge on motor skills in preclinical pediatric dentistry.
- Compare the quality of dental preparations on acrylic teeth versus virtual simulation (Simodont®).
- Assess dental students' perceptions of using Simodont® for training.
Main Methods:
- Observational, descriptive, cross-sectional study design.
- Students completed theoretical knowledge surveys and performed preparations on acrylic teeth and Simodont®.
- Preparations were assessed by a pediatric dentistry professor, followed by student perception surveys.
Main Results:
- Preclinical theoretical knowledge did not significantly correlate with motor skill scores.
- Dental preparation scores were higher on acrylic teeth (Class II: 2.57, Pulpotomy: 3.60) than Simodont® (Class II: 1.97, Pulpotomy: 2.92).
- Simodont® was positively received, but students preferred traditional acrylic teeth training.
Conclusions:
- Acrylic teeth yielded superior dental preparation scores compared to virtual simulation.
- While virtual simulation offers a positive learning experience, traditional methods remain preferred by students.
- Further research may explore optimizing virtual simulation integration in pediatric dentistry preclinical curricula.
