Stitching the Future: Comparing Multiple Suturing Models for Training Predoctoral Dental Students.

Area of Science:

• Dental Education
• Surgical Skills Training
• Simulation in Medicine

Background:

• Predoctoral dental students require proficiency in suturing techniques.
• Traditional training methods may not fully prepare students for clinical scenarios.
• Evaluating novel simulation models is crucial for effective skill acquisition.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess predoctoral dental students' experiences with various suturing practice models.
• To identify the most suitable model for developing and consolidating suturing skills.
• To compare student and assessor feedback on different simulation materials.

Main Methods:

• 44 fifth-year dental students participated in a 1-hour suturing training session.
• Students practiced simple suturing on four models: dry sponge, banana peel, silicone, and chicken breast.
• Questionnaires and expert evaluations assessed student performance and confidence levels.

Main Results:

• The silicone model received the highest ratings from both students and expert assessors.
• Significant increases in student self-confidence were observed after practicing on the models.
• Suturing experience and outcomes varied significantly across the different material types.

Conclusions:

• Simulated dental environments are effective for teaching basic suturing techniques.
• Silicone models offer a valuable tool for training dental students in suturing.
• This approach facilitates a smoother transition from didactic learning to clinical application.