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Integrating Haptic Virtual Reality Simulation in Pediatric Dentistry Education: A New Era of Training
Aslı Soğukpınar Önsüren1, Şeyma Mustuloğlu1, Seçkin Aksu1
1Department of Pediatric Dentistry, Faculty of Dentistry, Mersin University, Mersin, Turkey.
Background:
While preclinical (PC) training has historically been delivered through traditional methods, haptic virtual reality simulation (HVRS) has emerged as an increasingly popular alternative.
Aim:
This study aimed to evaluate the differences in the performance of third-year dental students between traditional PC and HVRS in pulpotomy, pulpectomy, and stainless steel crown (SSC) placement. Furthermore, the study purposed to identify the more convenient educational approach for improving student performance in dental procedures, based on evaluations conducted by a pediatric dentist (PD).
Design:
The study consisted of a total of 28 questions. Students' experiences, responses, and performances across both environments were analyzed. The relationship between these performances was evaluated by a PD. A p-value less than 0.05 was considered statistically significant.
Results:
According to the results of the study, 96.7% of our students "agreed" or "strongly agreed" that a pediatric dentistry PC course is necessary for our faculty's curriculum, and 46.7% "agreed" or "strongly agreed" that HVRS is supportive of PC training. Students perceived a significantly greater sense of safety when opening the access cavity for pulpotomy and pulpectomy in the HVRS environment compared to the conventional PC.
Conclusion:
The integration of HVRS into pediatric dentistry curricula may enhance clinical training.
