Teaching Dental Students Paediatric Behaviour Guidance With Virtual Reality: A Three-Year Study

Area of Science:

• Dental Education
• Virtual Reality Simulation
• Pediatric Dentistry

Background:

• Traditional methods for teaching pediatric behavior guidance to dental students have limitations.
• Virtual reality (VR) offers a potential low-cost, immersive solution for training.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effectiveness of low-cost virtual reality (VR) simulation in teaching behavior guidance for pediatric dental patients.
• To assess the impact of VR on dental students' empathy, confidence, and perceived ability in managing pediatric dental patients.

Main Methods:

• A cohort study involving third-year dental students from 2021-2023.
• Utilized a validated VR scenario for intervention, with assessments at pre-intervention, post-intervention, and 3-month post-clinical phases.
• Collected data on demographics, VR intervention impact, empathy scores, and self-perceived abilities.

Main Results:

• 181 students participated; 96% found VR improved empathy with children.
• Significant increases in objective empathy scores post-intervention (p=0.002) and sustained self-perceived confidence in communication (p<0.001), interaction (p=0.014), and procedures (p<0.001).
• VR intervention led to improved comfort and confidence in managing pediatric dental patients, with lasting effects.

Conclusions:

• Virtual reality simulation is an effective adjunct for teaching pediatric dental behavior guidance.
• The VR intervention was well-received by dental students, enhancing both objective and subjective outcomes.
• VR simulation shows promise for improving dental students' preparedness in pediatric dental care.