Effect of Training Sequence on Learning Outcomes Using a Haptic Virtual Simulator for Endodontic Access Cavities: A...

Area of Science:

• Dental Education
• Endodontics
• Simulation-Based Training

Background:

• Haptic virtual simulators are increasingly used in dental education.
• The impact of training sequence (simulation-first vs. natural-tooth-first) on early endodontic skill acquisition is not well understood.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the effect of two training sequences on endodontic access cavity preparation performance.
• Investigate haptic simulation followed by natural-teeth practice versus the reverse sequence.

Main Methods:

• Thirty-eight dental students were randomized into two groups.
• Participants completed training attempts on a haptic simulator (Simodont®) and extracted teeth.
• Performance was assessed using simulator metrics and blinded endodontist scoring; data analyzed with Mann-Whitney U, Wilcoxon signed-rank, and linear mixed-effects models.

Main Results:

• No significant differences in simulator metrics or natural-tooth performance were found between the two training sequences.
• Students showed significant improvement on the simulator between the first and second attempts, followed by a plateau.
• Mixed-effects modeling confirmed overall learning improvement, independent of training sequence.

Conclusions:

• The sequence of haptic simulation and natural-tooth practice does not influence learning outcomes or the quality of endodontic access preparations.
• Early performance gains indicate a rapid familiarization effect with simulators.
• Haptic simulation can be flexibly integrated into preclinical curricula without compromising educational effectiveness.