Reliability of CAD CAM Technology in Assessing Crown Preparations in a Preclinical Dental School Environment

Abstract

In order to use CAD CAM (Computer Aided Design, Computer Aided Manufacturing) technology as an assessment tool when evaluating the preclinical performance of dental students, it is imperative that one has conidence in the reliability of the process. In this study, a variety of alignment methods were compared to determine both the consistency and accuracy of each method. Although the "Tooth Dots Diagonal" method exhibited the best precision (coeficient of variation=5.4 percent), it also represented the least accurate method when compared to the other methods tested. Using "Small Dots Diagonal" on the gingiva appears to be the best option, exhibiting an acceptable coeficient of variation (17.6 percent) and a high degree of accuracy in terms of tolerance (mean±standard deviation=0.163±0.029). Based on the results of this study, further investigation of CAD CAM technology for the purpose of assessment and education of dental students is recommended.

Rethinking Assessment Concepts in Dental Education

“…This systematic process resulted in 24 articles being selected for inclusion in the review, seven had a low risk of bias [ 10 , 14 , 15 , 21 , 22 , 24 , 27 ], six had a high risk of bias [ 12 , 16 , 20 , 29 , 30 , 32 ], and eleven had an unclear risk of bias [ 13 , 17 – 19 , 23 , 25 , 26 , 28 , 31 , 33 , 34 ].…”

Investigation of inter‐ and intra‐rater reliability using digital dental software for prosthodontics crown preparations

“…It can be theorized, therefore, that student's preparation may be less accurate in terms of posterior crown preparations compared to anterior preparations. Several other studies have previously determined the validity and effectiveness of implementing this technology into student curriculum, 2,4,[6][7][8] although to the best of the authors' knowledge, all others have assessed only posterior teeth and none have compared the effect of using standardized measuring points.…”

“…Thus contrasting with several studies, whereby the intent was to assess the effectiveness as a faculty grading tool and operators were recruited through faculty staff. 2,4,7,8 Throughout the process, it was discovered that, as the operators became accustomed to the scanner and the software, scanning and measuring processes increased in efficiency. If this protocol was to be introduced into prosthodontic studies, adequate training must be provided to the students prior to application.…”

“…4 Pilot applications of such educational technology have been promising, with researchers advocating for their implementation within dental curriculum upon further detailed assessment and maturation of the software. [5][6][7][8] The Planmeca Emerald (Planmeca Illinois, USA) coupled with Romexis Compare (version 3) software allows students and staff to objectively assess crown preparations, receive numerical values of key dimensions, and subsequently undergo comparison with ideal crown preparation dimensions. 9 A consistent and objective assessment and evaluation method is crucial to the learning process of dental students through supporting the development of self-reflection and assessment skills.…”

“…2,12 Previous studies have assessed students' preparations against an ideal tooth preparation completed by a faculty member. 2,3,6,8 Results indicated a high level of inconsistent feedback and variability of grading from faculty members. 3,12 A study assessed previous versions of Planmeca software with the use of different scanners.…”