An initial assessment of haptics in preclinical operative dentistry training

J Investig Clin Dent. 2015 Feb;6(1):69-76. doi: 10.1111/jicd.12065. Epub 2013 Aug 15.

Abstract

Aim: The purpose of this study was to assess novice student perception of haptic-based manual dexterity training. The short-term impact of haptic training in the early phase of preclinical operative dentistry education was also investigated.

Methods: Dental students performed a class II amalgam and a class III resin tooth preparation in a typodont model at baseline. The experimental group performed exercises on the manual dexterity module of the IDEA™ software using a haptic device. The exercises required removing the maximum amount of three-dimensional geometric shapes within a predetermined width and depth. Tooth preparations were repeated 2 weeks later. A questionnaire survey was given to assess the subjective evaluation of the haptic simulation exercise.

Results: Tooth preparations were scored regarding external outline, internal form, and integrity of adjacent tooth. Improvement of overall tooth preparation scores post-haptic use was not statistically significant compared to controls (P > 0.05). However, students found the game-feature of the haptic device made the learning experience more fun and interesting.

Conclusion: The haptic exercises with the manual dexterity module software were not superior in improving the dexterity of students for tooth cavity preparations in short-term. Benefits of ease of use and fun learning experience can be further investigated in future studies.

Keywords: computer simulation; dental education; preclinical training; tooth preparation.

Publication types

  • Comparative Study
  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural

MeSH terms

  • Attitude of Health Personnel
  • Composite Resins / chemistry
  • Dental Amalgam / chemistry
  • Dental Cavity Preparation / classification
  • Dental Cavity Preparation / methods*
  • Dental Materials / chemistry
  • Dentistry, Operative / education*
  • Education, Dental*
  • Feedback
  • Humans
  • Learning
  • Motor Skills / physiology*
  • Simulation Training
  • Students, Dental / psychology
  • Touch / physiology*
  • User-Computer Interface

Substances

  • Composite Resins
  • Dental Materials
  • Dental Amalgam