History of virtual simulation in dental student education.

Abstract

In dental education, especially during the preclinical phase, virtual simulation has become an increasingly useful approach. It allows students to practice procedures in a safe, controlled setting where they can gradually build precision and confidence. This paper investigates how such technologies have developed over time and how they are now being used in dental schools. It focuses on tools like haptic systems, augmented reality, and AI-based training platforms, and considers how these influence students’ readiness for clinical situations. The review shows that simulation often helps students improve their technical skills and feel more prepared when transitioning to real patient care. Still, the adoption of these tools is not without challenges—cost, limited access, and the need for faculty training remain key issues. By reviewing relevant studies, this research points to the important role digital tools are beginning to play in dental education and supports further development of simulation methods to better equip future professionals.