The digitalization of the future world is dramatically changing based on advances
in information and communication technology, and the current classroom model seems
to have basic difficulties in preparing students for the future of medicine and dentistry.
New trends in teaching armamentarium include computer-based instructions, virtual
patients, augmented reality, human patient simulations, and virtual reality. Dentistry
is a profession that requires coordinated motor skills in addition to acquired knowledge
for the ideal treatment on any individual. Conventional pre-clinical training was
based on the use of cadavers and phantoms, but with the adaptation of technology in
dentistry, pre-clinical training has now employed simulation. It provides the opportunity
for students to develop psychomotor skills for procedures by practicing pre-clinical,
standardized learning competencies before they engage in patient management. Augmented
reality is commonly being employed in maxillofacial, restorative, tooth morphology
learning, and mastering technique for administering local anesthesia in dentistry.
Virtual reality is being employed particularly in pre-treatment implant planning and
dental education for students. The use of haptic technology, like robotics, is also
gaining popularity, and facilitates a two-way communication between the user and the
environment to better simulate the clinical setting for learning purposes. Innovations
in digital technology will lead the way toward a revolution in medical and dental
education, allowing learning to be individualized, interactive, and efficient.
