3D-printed Model for Preclinical Training in Oral Radiology: Anatomic and Pathological Conditions.

Abstract

Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of a 3D-printed model with simulated oral changes on the teaching of radiographic evaluation.

Methodology: A model of an adult patient with several simulated alterations was designed, including impacted teeth, dentigerous cyst, mesiodens, coronal fractures, periodontal resorptions, periapical lesions, and exostoses. The radiographic images obtained were evaluated by postgraduate students using a questionnaire. The data obtained were analyzed with descriptive and inferential statistics.

Results: The 3D model produced satisfactory images for the simulation of the proposed alterations. The general perception of the participants was positive, but there were significant differences between master's and doctoral students regarding the clinical-radiographic relationship of the simulated changes in general (p = 0.037) and the radiographic image of impacted canine (p = 0.032).

Conclusions: The 3D model was positively evaluated in most of the simulated alterations, demonstrating its potential as a pedagogical tool. These results reinforce the feasibility of 3D printing for producing models for radiographic assessment, offering image quality and versatility for the development of complex training.

Advances in knowledge: This is the first study to develop and evaluate a 3D-printed model with complex anatomical and pathological alterations for preclinical training in Oral and Maxillofacial Radiology.