CAD/CAM and Digital Flow Training in Dental Hygiene Vocational Education

The integration of digital technologies, such as CAD/CAM systems, into dental practice has significantly transformed both clinical workflows and educational methodologies. However, their incorporation into vocational training programs for Dental Hygiene remains limited. This study aimed to assess the level of familiarity, training, and perceptions related to CAD/CAM technologies and digital workflows among students enrolled in a Higher Technician in Dental Hygiene program.

A cross-sectional survey was conducted with 327 students enrolled in in-person, blended, and online modalities at a vocational training center in Seville, Spain. Data were collected using a validated 34-item questionnaire addressing demographics, digital literacy, and the perceived educational value of digital tools. Statistical analysis was performed using the Chi-square test and Cramér's V.

The sample was predominantly female (91.4%), with participants ranging in age from 18 to over 50 years. While 90.5% reported satisfaction with their academic program, 42.8% were unfamiliar with the term digital workflow, and 53.8% did not recognize the concept of CAD/CAM. Furthermore, 64.2% had received no prior training in digital workflows. Nonetheless, 89.3% of respondents expressed interest in incorporating such technologies into their curriculum, and 81.7% believed that 3D digital tools would be beneficial to their training. Statistically significant associations were observed between digital proficiency and positive attitudes toward the educational and clinical relevance of digital dentistry.

These findings reveal a considerable gap in current curricula, but also a strong willingness among students to adopt technological advancements. Integrating digital workflows and CAD/CAM systems into vocational training programs appears essential to better prepare students and align educational offerings with modern professional standards in dentistry.