Extended Reality in Endodontics: A Review of Current Applications and Future Potential

Area of Science:

• Endodontics
• Medical Education
• Extended Reality (XR)

Background:

• Extended reality (XR) technologies, including augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR), and mixed reality (MR), are increasingly integrated into endodontic education and practice.
• A significant knowledge gap exists regarding the applications and limitations of XR among endodontic educators and practitioners.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explain the technical foundations of AR, VR, and MR systems.
• To review current applications of XR in endodontic education and clinical practice.
• To examine limitations, barriers to adoption, and future directions for XR in endodontics.

Main Methods:

• A narrative review methodology was employed.
• A comprehensive literature search was conducted across PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science.
• 33 articles meeting inclusion criteria were reviewed for full-text analysis.

Main Results:

• XR technologies enhance endodontic education by improving visualization of anatomy and procedural accuracy in training.
• Haptic feedback and head-mounted displays offer realistic training superior to traditional methods.
• Current applications are predominantly educational, with limited clinical use; challenges include cost, complexity, data security, and standardization.

Conclusions:

• Thoughtful implementation of XR can significantly improve endodontic education, clinical workflows, and practice.
• Coordinated efforts are necessary to validate XR technologies, establish standards, and integrate them into routine endodontic education and care.