Technology-enhanced simulation-based learning in orthodontic education: A scoping review

Abstract

Introduction: Technology-enhanced simulations seem to be effective in dentistry, as they can support dental students to improve competencies in simulated environments. However, implementation of this technology in orthodontic education has not been reviewed. Objective: This scoping review aimed to comprehensively summarize the use of technology-enhanced simulations in orthodontic practice. Methods: A systematic search was conducted to identify literature on technology-enhanced simulation-based learning in orthodontic education published from 2000 to 2021. The search was conducted up to September 2021 to identify articles from Scopus, Embase, PubMed, ProQuest Dissertations & Theses Global, Google Scholar and the reference lists of identified articles. Results: The search identified 177 articles. Following the inclusion and exclusion criteria, 16 articles of 14 digital simulators were included in this review. The findings demonstrated an increasing use of technology-enhanced simulations in orthodontic education. They were designed in several formats, including three-dimensional virtual format, augmented reality, virtual reality, automaton, haptic, and scenario-based simulations. These simulations were implemented in varied areas of orthodontics including diagnosis and treatment planning, bracket positioning, orthodontic procedures, facial landmark, removable appliance and cephalometric tracing. Most included articles demonstrated the development process without outcome evaluation. Six studies provided outcome evaluations at reaction or learning levels. None of them provide the evaluation at behaviour and results levels. Conclusion: Insufficient evidence has been generated to demonstrate the effectiveness of technology-enhanced simulations in orthodontic education. However, high-fidelity computer-based simulations together with robust design research should be required to confirm educational impact in orthodontic education.

The accuracy of virtual setup in simulating treatment outcomes in orthodontic practice: a systematic review

“…Virtual setup can provide safe learning environments for orthodontic residents to perform digital tooth movement and predict treatment outcomes, with or without supervision, in various orthodontic cases repetitively until they are competent for clinical practice. There is evidence of an increasing use of these tooth movement simulations in orthodontic education, where residents may use the virtual setups to present and discuss their treatment plans with clinical advisors [ 14 , 55 , 56 ]. Moreover, virtual setup could be used for a case conference where orthodontic professionals can discuss various cases with their colleagues [ 7 , 11 ].…”

“…Virtual setups can also be used for a case conference where orthodontists could present their treatment to their colleagues for educational purposes [ 7 ]. With the virtual setup, orthodontic patients with various craniofacial problems can be simulated, where orthodontic residents could gain experiences and improve their cognitive competence in safe environments through computer-generated tooth movement [ 14 ]. Consequently, virtual setup can play an important role as a technology-enhanced learning tool in orthodontic education.…”

The application of virtual reality and augmented reality in dentistry – a literature review

“…The learning outcomes of orthodontics generally require varied psychomotor skills, such as wire bending, bracket positioning, and interproximal reduction (IPR), as well as competency in dealing with patients their guardians and the psychological concerns they face. Sipiyaruk et al 24 in their systematic review listed various works being done in VR/AR for the field of orthodontics. The use of an AI algorithm for the identification to analysis of points on 2D images introduced by Rao et al 25 provides new opportunities for smart learning.…”