Live patient courses in dental implant surgery provide invaluable real-world experience for dental students, enhancing their clinical skills and confidence. These courses allow students to engage directly with patients, facilitating a deeper understanding of the complexities involved in implant procedures. Research indicates that hands-on clinical experience significantly boosts students’ confidence in diagnosing and planning dental implant treatments. A study by Prasad and Bansal found that dental students with clinical experience were more confident in their abilities compared to those without such training, highlighting the importance of clinical training in implantology [1]. This confidence is crucial, as it directly correlates with the success rates of dental implant surgeries, which have shown high survival rates when students are adequately trained [2].
The integration of live patient courses into dental education aligns with contemporary educational methodologies that emphasize experiential learning. Vandeweghe et al. highlight that real-life clinical sessions are essential for undergraduate students to develop the necessary competencies for implant surgery, as recommended by the ADEE consensus on implant dentistry in Europe [3]. Furthermore, the systematic review by Koole and Bruyn emphasizes that students not only participate in implant placement but also take responsibility for treatment planning, which is a critical aspect of the learning process [2]. This comprehensive approach ensures that students are well-prepared for future clinical challenges.
Moreover, the use of advanced technologies, such as virtual planning and simulation, complements live patient courses by enhancing students’ understanding of surgical concepts. Seitz et al. noted that virtual planning aids students in visualizing the surgical site, thereby increasing their comfort and competence during actual procedures [4]. Similarly, the application of dynamic navigation systems during training has been shown to improve students’ accuracy in implant placement, as they receive real-time feedback that helps them adjust their techniques [5]. This integration of technology into training not only enhances the educational experience but also prepares students for the evolving landscape of dental surgery.
In summary, live patient courses are integral to dental education, providing students with essential hands-on experience that builds confidence and competence in implant surgery. The combination of direct patient interaction, responsibility in treatment planning, and the incorporation of advanced technologies creates a robust educational framework that prepares future dental professionals for successful careers in implant dentistry.
References
- Clark, D.; Barbu, H.M.; Lorean, A.; Mijiritsky, E.; Levin, L. Incidental Findings of Implant Complications on Postimplantation CBCTs: A Cross‐sectional Study. Clinical Implant Dentistry and Related Research 2017, 19, 776-782, doi:10.1111/cid.12511.
- Koole, S.; Bruyn, H.D. Contemporary Undergraduate Implant Dentistry Education: A Systematic Review. European Journal of Dental Education 2014, 18, 11-23, doi:10.1111/eje.12076.
- Vandeweghe, S.; Koole, S.; Younes, F.; Coster, P.D.; Bruyn, H.D. Dental Implants Placed by Undergraduate Students: Clinical Outcomes and Patients’/Students’ Perceptions. European Journal of Dental Education 2014, 18, 60-69, doi:10.1111/eje.12077.
- Seitz, S.; Zimmermann, R.; Hendricson, W.D. Expansion of a Predoctoral Surgical Implant Selective for Dental Students. Journal of Dental Education 2016, 80, 328-333, doi:10.1002/j.0022-0337.2016.80.3.tb06088.x.
- Zhan, Y.; Wang, M.; Cheng, X.; Li, Y.; Shi, X.; Liu, F. Evaluation of a Dynamic Navigation System for Training Students in Dental Implant Placement. Journal of Dental Education 2020, 85, 120-127, doi:10.1002/jdd.12399.
