Page 56 - DP Vol 21 No1_Neat

EDUCATION SECTION

THE MODERNIZATION OF DENTAL EDUCATION:

SHAPING TOMORROW’S DENTISTS

Dhruv Ahuja and Aadya Batra

INTRODUCTION
Dental education, once dominated by traditional methods such as
lectures, textbook-based learning, and hands-on clinical practice, is
being reshaped by modern technologies and educational paradigms.
With increasing emphasis on student engagement, precision, and
efficiency, newer teaching modalities, such as flipped classrooms,
simulation-based learning, and the integration of Augmented Reality
(AR) or Artificial Intelligence (AI), are gaining traction. These
developments not only enhance student learning but also ensure
better preparedness for the challenges faced in contemporary dental
practice. As such, understanding the integration of these methods into
curricula, and how they differ across school-based and university-
based programs, is crucial for educators and policymakers aiming to
advance dental education globally.

INNOVATIVE MODALITIES OF DENTAL EDUCATION
The rapid advancements in education technology have prompted a
shift in the way dental institutions approach teaching and training.
The primary focus is on creating more interactive, student-centered
learning environments that integrate both digital tools and real-world Fig 1: Innovative Modalities of Dental Education
applications. (Figure 1)
skills before progressing to live patients.
1. Flipped Classroom Model
The flipped classroom model is an innovative pedagogical approach 3. Team-Based Learning (TBL)
that inverts the traditional teaching method. In a flipped classroom, Team-based learning (TBL) encourages collaborative problem-
students engage with theoretical content outside of class—through solving, where students work in groups to tackle complex clinical
videos, articles, or online modules—while classroom time is dedicated cases. This approach is particularly beneficial in dental education,
to interactive discussions, case studies, and problem-solving exercises. where interdisciplinary collaboration and effective communication
For dental students, this model allows more time to engage in clinical are crucial to patient care. TBL helps students develop interpersonal
scenarios, providing real-world context to theoretical learning. It skills, manage conflicts, and learn from peers, all of which are essential
fosters active learning, wherein students become responsible for their in clinical practice.
own learning while developing critical thinking skills.
TECHNOLOGICAL INTEGRATION: VIRTUAL REALITY (VR)
2. Simulation-Based Learning AND ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE (AI)
Simulation has become a cornerstone of modern dental education. The incorporation of emerging technologies like VR and AI has
This approach allows students to practice clinical procedures in a risk- revolutionized the way dental education is delivered. These tools
free environment, where they can make mistakes and learn without provide both enhanced learning environments and personalized
harming patients. High-fidelity simulators, which replicate human educational experiences, which are critical in an increasingly diverse
anatomy and dental conditions with remarkable accuracy, are now and fast paced healthcare landscape.
commonly used in dental schools. For instance, simulators provide
a platform where students can perform dental treatment modalities AUGMENTED REALITY (AR) IN DENTAL EDUCATION
including cavity preparation, scaling or extractions in a controlled, VR technology enables students to immerse themselves in 3D,
virtual environment. This immersive learning experience is invaluable interactive environments that simulate clinical situations and human
for developing manual dexterity, decision-making, and procedural anatomy. This immersive experience is particularly beneficial in dental

ARTICLE CITATION
Dhruv Ahuja, Aadya Batra (2025). The modernization of dental education: Shaping tomorrow’s dentists. Dental Practice, 21(1), 56-58
56 Dental Practice I January-February 2025 I Vol 21 No 1 Continued on Page 58