Perceived effectiveness: simulation teeth in dental education

BACKGROUND: Typodont simulation is a key part of undergraduate dental training globally, allowing prospective dentists to repeatedly practice the necessary skills to safely and effectively care for their future patients. Anecdotally, and in previous small studies, typodonts fall short when compared to what they aim to replicate: human teeth. This study aimed to evaluate opinions on the effectiveness, use, advantages and disadvantages of typodonts. METHODS: This study gathered quantitative and qualitative data from 338 dentists and dental students using an online questionnaire, evaluating their opinion on the effectiveness of typodont simulation. Likert scales to 32 questions collected opinions on effectiveness of various typodont attributes such as tactile feedback and appearance. Responses were analysed to examine differences in opinion across participant groups using the appropriate parametric and non-parametric tests; free-text responses were analysed thematically. RESULTS: Typodonts were used extensively in all surveyed institutions. They were considered to be moderately effective and readily available for repeated practice of direct and indirect preparations. Improvement is required in several key areas: caries simulation, anatomical layering and endodontic simulation, particularly in relation to material properties related to tactile realism. There were varying opinions on cost and environmental impact when comparing methods of manufacture. Standardisation and customisation of typodonts for education was valued by all. CONCLUSION: Anatomical layering, tactile realism and caries are important factors to students and dentists in simulation education. Traditionally manufactured typodont were used by the majority of those surveyed but lack key qualities such as realistic tactile feedback required for effective simulation of human teeth, simulation of caries and root canal anatomy. There is potential for more modern methods of manufacture such as 3D-printing to assist in this need for better representation of the complex anatomy and feel of teeth, positively impacting both patient safety and dental education, yet these still fall short in realistic haptic feel and caries simulations. Alongside these features, environmental, financial and availability should be considered.