Table 1_Application of virtual reality haptic simulators in periodontics: insights from dental professionals.xlsx

IntroductionVirtual reality haptic simulator (VRHS)-training devices that integrate visual immersion with tactile feedback- are increasingly used in dental education, yet their application in periodontics remains limited. Sonic scaling requires high tactile precision and control, making it a suitable domain for evaluating VRHS efficacy. This study assessed faculty perceptions and performance using VRHS for preclinical periodontal training compared with conventional simulation.
MethodsA quasi-experimental, repeated-measures study was conducted with 30 calibrated faculty members (15 periodontists; 15 general dentists) from the European University of Valencia. Each participant performed standardized calculus removal tasks using both the Simodont® dental trainer and conventional mannequin-based models. Objective outcomes—treatment time, residual calculus, and tip angulation—were recorded, and perceptions were collected through a 14-item Likert questionnaire and open-ended questions adapted from Philip et al. (2023) and Bakr et al. (2016).
ResultsTreatment time was significantly shorter in conventional training (26.7% completed <2 min) compared with VRHS (13.3%; p = 0.033). VRHS achieved higher residual calculus scores (3.00 ± 0.00 vs. 2.75 ± 0.21; p < 0.001) and improved tip angulation (2.68 ± 0.36 vs. 2.51 ± 0.44; p = 0.015). Within VRHS, periodontists outperformed general dentists in angulation (2.85 ± 0.18 vs. 2.52 ± 0.42; p = 0.010), though no other group differences were significant. Satisfaction scores were high (mean = 4.16 ± 0.45), and internal consistency was acceptable (Cronbach's α = 0.73). Faculty valued repetition, feedback, and confidence building but noted limited realism—particularly the absence of water, soft tissues, and subgingival calculus.
ConclusionVRHS improved precision and consistency in preclinical scaling while requiring longer completion times. Faculty endorsed its educational value as a complementary tool to conventional training. Continued refinement in tactile realism and broader multicenter validation are needed to consolidate its integration into periodontal education.