The impact of haptic virtual reality simulation on the development of psychomotor skills in preclinical dentistry among dental undergraduate students

Psychomotor skill development is a critical aspect of preclinical dental training. However, traditional simulation methods provide limited tactile and kinesthetic feedback and require substantial resources. Haptic virtual reality simulation (HVRS) provides an interactive learning environment with instantaneous feedback that might enhance early skill development and engage digitally native learners. To compare the effect of HVRS-based training versus conventional Perspex blocks (polymethylmethacrylate) simulation on psychomotor performance of first-year dental students during cavity-like shape preparations. A total of 69 first year dental students with no previous handpiece usage experience were assigned to two groups. Group A students acquired HVRS training prior to carrying out preparations on the Perspex blocks, whereas Group B students were trained using Perspex blocks only. Students prepared Oval and Bow shaped cavities, which were evaluated for outline conformity, floor smoothness and depth accuracy by the standardized and calibrated William’s probes used by the faculty and students in the clinical setting. Group differences were examined using the Mann-Whitney U Test. Group A demonstrated significantly higher median scores for depth (79, IQR 39) and floor smoothness (78, IQR 20) compared to Group B (depth: median 65, IQR 32; floor smoothness: median 55, IQR 21; p < 0.001 for both). No significant difference was observed for outline conformity between the two groups ( p = 0.585). Haptic-based Virtual Reality simulation training resulted in statistically significant improvements in depth accuracy and floor smoothness in preclinical psychomotor skill development, however no significant difference was observed for outline conformity. Haptic virtual reality simulation demonstrates a meaningful adjunct to traditional preclinical dental training.