UQ adopts virtual dentistry training

Australia: Dentistry students at the University of Queensland (UQ) are practicing with 3D headsets, taking advantage of virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) technologies as important learning tools.

The new technologies were implemented by Dr Sobia Zafar from the Digital Dental Team at UQ’s School of Dentistry.

Virtual tools shapes learning environment

The VR headsets enable the students to interact with 3D human models, and practice on virtual head and neck anatomy. Students wear AR headsets with in-built sensors that mimic their movements around a virtual dental clinic as they interact with virtual patients.

The AR/VR tools have been used as part of the University’s dental training program for more than 400 students over the past four years.

“Training dental students is a complex process as it requires a lot of fine motor skills, as well as hand-foot and eye coordination,” said Dr Zafar.

“Despite having simulation sessions to provide a smooth transition into clinics, 87 per cent of students said they felt they needed additional training before being put in a real-life setting.

“That’s why we decided to embed both virtual and augmented reality technologies into our classes to provide extra, immersive training for students.

Virtual anaesthetic training

Dr Zafar and Dr Jessica Zachar co-developed a software that allows students to practice administering local anaesthesia.

“Virtual reality allows students to practice in a safe environment, make mistakes they can rectify, and improve their confidence before entering a clinic to treat real clients,” Dr Zafar added.

Their efforts to transform the student’s dental training environment through digital technologies have been recognised with a commendation in UQ’s Teaching and Learning (T&L) Week Awards.

“It’s a great feeling to be recognised for our work in this year’s Teaching and Learning Awards.
“We hope this inspires other health professions to consider digital innovative learning as this teaching style is not limited to just dentistry.”

Developing well-rounded health professionals

Dr Zachar said the team’s goal was to develop well-rounded health professionals through providing students with stimulating learning environments.

“These digital teaching tools have helped students maximise their potential and expand their knowledge in dental trauma management, dental anatomy and local anaesthesia administration,” Dr Zachar said.

“We want to set students up to become leaders within the profession and local community, delivering optimum health care.”