Development and evaluation of an interdisciplinary teaching model via 3D printing

Abstract

The investigation aimed to assess the feasibility of creating an interdisciplinary training model simulating endodontic, restorative as well as implantologic treatment procedures by using 3D printing technology. A CBCT scan of the mandible of a real patient was initially taken. The generated DICOM‐data were converted to a STL‐file, which was further processed to design spaces for exchangeable replica teeth, a bone segment and an adapter to fix the model in a mannequin's head. After the manufacturing process, the model was evaluated by dental students performing a root canal treatment, the insertion of a glass fibre post and the insertion of an implant. The workflow allowed a simple and cost‐effective way of manufacturing a single model, which is suitable for several training scenarios in the fields of endodontics, prosthodontics and implantology. The model was rated as being comparable to the real patient situation and offers repetitive treatment simulations. The present workflow is a feasible way of using DICOM‐data and 3D printing for an interdisciplinary training model. The dental schools can design models according to their own curriculum and put the focus on a patient centered education.

Effect of an endodontic e-learning application on students’ performance during their first root canal treatment on real patients: a pilot study

“…However, teachers are aware that practice is the most important factor in developing endodontic skills. One major innovation of endodontic teaching has been introducing endodontic tooth models created using cone-beam computed tomography and manufactured using 3D printing [ 6 – 9 ]. Based on treatment errors observed in the last five years, our department developed the DRSK RCT® endodontic tooth model, optimized due to extensive evaluations by students and instructors and proofed to contribute to endodontic teaching [ 10 ].…”

Evaluation of new endodontic tooth models in clinical education from the perspective of students and demonstrators

“…The 3D print technology used for producing the DRSK RCT made it possible to change the shapes of the root canals and modify them as desired without incurring substantial costs [ 25 , 26 ]. The ratings by students and instructors alike point to the suitability of the studied model to be used in endodontic courses.…”

3D-Printed Teeth in Endodontics: Why, How, Problems and Future—A Narrative Review

“…Three-dimensional-printed teeth that reproduce the features of natural teeth may overcome all these limitations [19,28,31,34] and are also suitable for practicing access opening, canal instrumentation, radiographic length control and canal filling [26,28].…”

“…Artificial teeth that reproduce the features of natural teeth may overcome these limitations [19,28,31,34]. In recent years, different factory-manufactured models have been introduced in the market, which are realistic and standardized.…”

“…Three-dimensional printing is a rapidly developing technology that has gained widespread acceptance in dentistry [36], and with costs constantly declining and more materials available, 3D-printed teeth offer unexpected possibilities for the development of new, individual models that are not yet available on the market or are too expensive to purchase in high quantities [26,28,31,34]. Nonetheless, the major criticism of 3D-printed teeth is the difference in radiopacity and hardness between resin and human dentine [19,23,31].…”