Application of Clinical-Experimental-Clinical Teaching Model for Specialist Training in Dentistry

Dental education faces challenges in terms of integrating theory and practice. This study aimed to integrate online virtual simulation, three-dimensional (3D)-printed models, and hands-on training to develop a clinical-experimental-clinical (CEC) teaching model based on third-molar pericoronitis and tooth extraction and to evaluate its application in oral and maxillofacial surgery (OMFS) specialist training.

The study enrolled 67 OMFS students and 22 surgeons from the West China School of Stomatology, Sichuan University. Patients with third-molar pericoronitis were selected, and their cases were integrated into an online virtual simulation platform for students to practice tooth extraction procedures. Additionally, a 3D-printed model was used for offline training. The effectiveness of CEC was assessed through postoperative reviews and a questionnaire survey.

Nearly 80% of students considered CEC well-designed, and almost 90% were satisfied with its consistency with theoretical courses. A majority (80.6%) believed it improved clinical skills, and 86.57% agreed it enhanced theoretical understanding. Over 80% supported its expansion to other dental courses. Compared to traditional teaching, 83.58% found CEC facilitated repeated learning. Most teachers agreed it improved students' theoretical knowledge (95.45%), clinical skills (90.9%), and confidence (86.37%). While 50% found it easy to implement, 31.82% felt it required technical support. Despite some challenges, 77.25% of teachers preferred the CEC model over traditional methods and supported its broader application.

The CEC teaching model effectively enhanced OMFS students' practical skills and clinical competence, demonstrating its potential for broader application in specialist training in dentistry.