Enhancing Precision in Mesiodens Extraction: Evaluating 3D-Printed Visualization Models in Surgical Training

Extraction of impacted mesiodens presents surgical challenges due to the proximity to developing permanent incisors. This study evaluated how adding 3D-printed visualization models to cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) surgical planning impacts trainees' efficiency and precision in impacted mesiodens extraction.

Ten pediatric dental residents, all without prior experience in mesiodens extraction, were randomized into two groups. Group I received CBCT imaging with access to a transparent 3D-printed visualization model. Group II received CBCT imaging alone. Each participant performed a simulated mesiodens extraction using anatomically accurate 3D-printed surgical models. Primary outcome measures included surgical time and extent of bone removal, quantified by comparing presurgical and postsurgical CT scans of the models. Statistical analysis was performed using the Mann-Whitney U test with p < 0.05 considered significant. Effect sizes were calculated to assess clinical relevance.

Group I demonstrated a shorter mean surgical time (508.8 ± 165.91 s) compared to Group II (720.8 ± 174.78 s), though the difference was not statistically significant (p > 0.05). The observed effect size (r = 0.56) indicates a large effect and a potential efficiency improvement. Bone removal was significantly reduced in Group I compared to Group II for both surface area and volume (p < 0.05).

Access to 3D-printed visualization models with CBCT imaging significantly minimized unnecessary bone removal and enhanced surgical precision, supporting their use as an effective adjunct in simulation-based surgical training. Although the sample size was small (n = 10), which limits statistical power and generalizability, large effect sizes suggest educational value. Further studies with larger cohorts will be useful to confirm and extend these findings.