A new comprehensive literature review of the benefits and challenges of integrating virtual reality (VR) haptics training in dental education highlights its transformative potential.

Published in the Journal of Dental Education, the review by an international team of researchers, led by the Institute of Dentistry at the University of Eastern Finland, examined the current applications and impact of VR-haptics in dental learning, practice and instruction.

The researchers conducted a thorough literature search in PubMed, focusing on research published between January 2010 and January 2024. Additionally, findings from a global educator survey on VR-haptics usage in dental education were incorporated in the analysis.

According to the study, VR-haptic simulation has demonstrated significant value as a complementary tool in dental simulation practice. However, validation was identified as a key factor for the acceptance of VR-haptic simulators, and further research and verification is needed before VR-haptics could be considered a primary method of learning hand skills in dental education.

The researchers conclude that in the future, VR-haptic simulation could be used as an assessment tool for students’ and clinicians’ credentialing process.

Prof. Murat Mutluay of the University of Eastern Finland said: “VR-haptics-supported dental education offers significant potential in addressing challenges in preclinical and clinical training. It may help mitigate certain limitations of current educational methods. However, continued research and validation are essential before VR-haptics can be considered a primary method for developing hand skills in dental education. As the technology advances, it may play an increasingly important role in both learning and assessment within the dental profession”.

From: https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2024/12/241218132204.htm