Digital Versus Conventional Appliance Fabrication in Orthodontics: A Prospective Cohort Study on Students' Perception...

This prospective cohort study aimed to evaluate the subjective perception of digital and conventional orthodontic fabrication methods among dental students. The educational effectiveness of conventional and digital approaches was assessed using a novel approach that included user experience surveys and a quantitative evaluation of the teaching units.

A total of 64 pre-graduated dental students from two consecutive semesters independently fabricated a conventionally and a digitally manufactured orthodontic appliance. Subjective evaluations were collected about the two different fabrication methods using standardized User Experience Questionnaires (UEQ). Six dimensions were assessed: attractiveness, perspicuity, efficiency, dependability, stimulation, and novelty. The corresponding teaching unit (CAD/CAM seminar) was evaluated using a Likert-based questionnaire. The statistical analysis included Wilcoxon tests for paired samples and reliability assessments (Cronbach's alpha, Guttman's lambda-2).

The digital workflow received higher ratings in all UEQ dimensions, particularly for novelty (M = 1.87 vs. -1.08, p < 0.0001). Attractiveness of digital methods was perceived positively compared to the conventional approach (M = 1.59 / M = -0.21). Pragmatic quality (perspicuity, efficiency, and dependability) was also rated more favorably for the digital approach (M = 0.88 / 0.12). The associated CAD/CAM seminar received an overall positive evaluation. Participants reported learning progress and expressed interest in continuing the course.

Digital orthodontic fabrication methods are perceived more positively than conventional techniques by dental students, highlighting the value of integrating digital workflows into dental education.