Benefits of using virtual reality in cariology teaching.

BACKGROUND: Virtual Reality (VR) has been widely used as an useful educational tool in modern dentistry and is considered as an alternative training tool adjunct to conventional training methods. OBJECTIVE: This study was designed to investigate the effectiveness of VR haptic-enhanced simulators for training undergraduate dental students during practical cariology pre-clinical caries excavation sessions. METHODS: A total number of 76 students were recruited for this study. Students were randomly divided into 2 groups (38 students each). The experimental group (VR-Start group), students performed caries removal at the VR haptic-enhanced simulator prior to practicing on natural extracted teeth. Conversely, the control group (Natural Tooth-Start Group), students exposed to VR simulation training after practicing on extracted natural teeth. An evaluation questionnaire was disseminated among students to evaluate their self-confidence, perceived clinical skills and their perception of providing better care to patients in the future. They were also invited to express their opinions on the usefulness of VR simulator in comparison with conventional learning methods. RESULTS: The outcome of Chi-square test showed no significant difference in students' response among this study groups (p > 0.05). Moreover, the outcome of this study revealed that both student groups considered virtual reality as a useful learning tool. Majority of students (90%) superiorly ranked experience gained from practicing on natural carious teeth. They also clearly stated that virtual reality allowed them to practice more and improve their self-confidence level as well as eye-hand coordination. CONCLUSIONS: Virtual reality simulator is a useful learning tool which can benefit undergraduate dental students at their pre-clinical stage; but, it cannot totally replace the conventional caries excavation.