Application Study of Virtual Simulation System for Preclinical Cavity Preparation Training

Area of Science:

• Dental Education
• Medical Simulation
• Virtual Reality in Dentistry

Background:

• Traditional manikin systems (TMS) for preclinical dental training have limitations.
• Virtual simulation systems (VSS) offer unique advantages for dental education.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the impact of VSS and TMS training order on undergraduate preclinical cavity preparation.
• To evaluate the potential of VSS in preclinical dental training.

Main Methods:

• 97 undergraduates were randomly assigned to VSS-then-TMS (VM group) or TMS-then-VSS (MV group) sequences.
• Cavity preparations (Class I, II, V) were assessed based on training order and type.
• Questionnaires evaluated user experience and perceived efficacy of VSS.

Main Results:

• The MV group scored higher than the VM group in VSS training, with a significant difference in Class II cavities.
• No significant difference was found between VM and MV groups in TMS training results.
• Most participants found VSS more difficult but preferred it before TMS, with 90% willing to use it in future courses.

Conclusions:

• VSS is a promising preclinical dental training tool, overcoming TMS drawbacks like injury risk and material waste.
• VSS can enhance student proficiency and accuracy in cavity preparation.
• Integrating VSS before TMS in the curriculum is favored, necessitating a well-designed VR simulation curriculum.