Evaluation of 3D-Printed Models in Dental Education: Practical Applications and Student Perspectives

Recently, developments in digital technologies have significantly transformed dental education and practice. This study aims to assess students' knowledge and interest in digital dentistry and evaluate the implementation of 3D-printed models in dental training. A survey was conducted among 249 dental students to gauge their understanding of digital technologies, their willingness to deepen their knowledge, and their perceptions of advantages and limitations compared to conventional methods.

Following the survey, 3D-printed dental models with removable dies were fabricated using high-resolution resin printing technology and distributed among first-year dental students. Over 13 weeks, students utilized these models for prosthetic training, performing procedures such as wax modeling, casting, and polishing of dental crowns. The study assessed the models' durability and categorized defects based on their location and cause.

The results revealed a high level of student interest in digital technologies, emphasizing the necessity of integrating modern tools into dental education. Statistical analysis of the defects in the 3D-printed models highlighted critical areas requiring improvement, particularly concerning mechanical handling. Additionally, correlation analyses of student responses indicated that those who perceive digital tools as beneficial for their future careers are more inclined to adopt them in practice.

The findings underscore the importance of digitalization in dental training, highlighting both its benefits and areas for refinement. Enhancing processing techniques and optimizing training methodologies can further improve the quality of 3D-printed models and their effectiveness in dental education.