Impact of an e-learning platform in improving dentists' CBCT diagnostic skills: a pilot study

Area of Science:

• Dentistry
• Medical Imaging
• Digital Health Education

Background:

• Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) is crucial in modern dentistry.
• Specialized training and licensing are required for CBCT use in Germany.
• Assessing effective digital learning tools for CBCT is essential.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate an e-learning platform's effectiveness in enhancing CBCT knowledge.
• To assess participant satisfaction and experiences with the digital learning tool.
• To compare learning outcomes between dentists with and without a CBCT license.

Main Methods:

• A cohort of German dentists, with and without CBCT licenses, participated.
• An online pre-test assessed baseline knowledge, followed by access to an e-learning platform with 104 annotated CBCT cases.
• A post-test and a satisfaction questionnaire evaluated knowledge gain and user experience.

Main Results:

• The e-learning platform significantly increased participants' CBCT knowledge (p < 0.001).
• Initial knowledge gaps between licensed and unlicensed dentists diminished post-intervention.
• Participants reported the platform as a valuable, user-friendly tool for improving diagnostic skills.

Conclusions:

• The digital learning platform effectively improved CBCT diagnostic skills.
• Dentists, irrespective of prior licensing, found the platform practical and beneficial.
• E-learning offers a viable solution for CBCT training and skill enhancement.