Improvement of surgical skills in students using a newly developed 3D printed osteotomy model of a partially retained wisdom tooth
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: OBJECTIVES: Against the background of digitalization, practicing on 3-D models for dental education has become more important. To improve the surgical skills of dental students, this study aimed to develop a 3-D-printed model for osteotomy of a partially retained lower wisdom tooth and evaluate surgical skills of students with practical experience acquired through phantom exercises compared to students who acquired experience only by assisting oral surgeons. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We developed a 3-D model that allows dental students to perform an osteotomy of a partially retained real wisdom tooth in region 48. The model was evaluated by oral surgeons (OS; n = 5), students with phantom experience (PE; n = 26), and students with experience with clinical assistance (CE; n = 29). Additionally, student performance was rated. RESULTS: The OS, PE, and CE groups all evaluated the model as suitable for student courses, except for the gingiva mask. The CE group developed slightly better. In the exercise, the PE group showed better incision results, while the CE group was slightly better in the preparation of the working field. CONCLUSIONS: The osteotomy model is suitable for hands-on courses for dental students, but the gingiva should be improved. However, phantom exercise cannot replace clinical experience. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: To improve education, knowledge and self confidence of students in dental school.
Source: BMC Medical Education
Institutions: Universitätsklinikum Aachen, RWTH Aachen University
Language: English
Subfield: Biomedical Engineering
Field: Engineering
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $2,990
Funder: RWTH Aachen University
OpenAlex ID: W4417182264