Posted by Amy Carbone on Jul 5, 2023 10:45:00 AM
Advancements in technology will continue to influence the future of dentistry. However, the release of a new robot in Japan may signal the future of training as dental schools prepare dental students for real-life scenarios.
Here, we’ll dive into dental technology and how simulation equipment such as this latest Japanese robot, the Pedia_Roid, can potentially revolutionize the industry.
Pedia_Roid as a Part of Dental Technology
Dental professionals need to be prepared to work on all kinds of patients. Pedia_Roid — a pediatric simulation robot — was released in Japan to teach dental students how to handle a jittery or emotional first-time patient.
This realistic-looking child robot was developed by Nissin Dental Products Inc. as a safe learning environment to teach skills such as:
- Patient communication.
- Facial expression monitoring.
- Medical accident avoidance.
- Basic life support.
Dentists can gain confidence in the above skills because the Pedia_Roid can:
- Answer questions, follow directions, and communicate pain levels.
- Show signs of distress such as flailing arms and legs, elevated heart rate, and changing facial expressions.
- Be used by dental students to perform many dental procedures without risk.
- Act as a practice tool for life-saving techniques such as CPR.
As an advanced tool, this patient simulator technology prepares students through hands-on experiences while avoiding the risks that come with working on live patients.
The MANABOT
While Pedia_Roid can accurately replicate child behavior and common conditions, the geriatric patient oral care manikin MANABOT has a lifelike oral cavity and organs that simulate those of an elderly patient.
MANABOT’s oral cavity has multiple conditions and dental materials applied including a partial denture, gingival recession, and missing teeth. A full-body MANABOT-F can be positioned in a wheelchair to allow dental students to practice in a realistic environment.
The Future of Dental Training: Simulations
Since the pandemic, there has been a shift to virtual learning and online education tools — including artificial intelligence (AI) applications — for dentists wanting continuing education options. As dental students and practice owners look for ways to build skill sets in dentistry, new dental technology tools will likely help redefine the future of dentistry.
Humanoids, while an exciting form of hands-on learning, are not the only examples of training technology that uses simulation. Nissin Dental Products Inc. has also introduced Simodont® — a virtual reality training environment specifically for dental education. There are also virtual online learning platforms for dentists that enable dentists to learn from the comfort of their home or office.
Why Is Simulation Technology the Future of Dentistry Education?
According to ScienceDirect, simulation technology can be used to “improve fine motor skills, hand-eye coordination in pre-clinical settings and overcome the monetary and intellectual challenges involved with such training.” In some cases, virtual simulations can help dental professionals avoid having to travel to seminars or classes in order to improve their mastery of dental procedures and patient care.
Preparing Students for Life After Dental School
Technology is not the only way dental schools are incorporating more realistic training scenarios. Many educators are enhancing the curriculum by adding business administration and leadership courses. This shift in thinking is driven by the need for management skills, business experience, and the ability to relate to patients of all backgrounds. .
To find out more information about how to prepare for a successful dental career, download our “Post-Dental School Survival Guide.”
About Treloar & Heisel
Treloar & Heisel, an EPIC Company, is a premier financial services provider to dental and medical professionals across the country. We assist thousands of clients from residency to practice and through retirement with a comprehensive suite of financial services, custom-tailored advice, and a strong national network focused on delivering the highest level of service.
