From Simulation to Skill: Perceptions of Preclinical Restorative Dentistry Among Dental Students

Abstract

Objective: To record student’s perceptions about preclinical restorative dentistry course.

Study Design: Descriptive cross-sectional study.

Place and duration of study: Institute of Dentistry and CMH Lahore Medical College, from January to June, 2023

Patients and Method: It was conducted on dental students and house officers who have attended Preclinical Restorative Dentistry Course in their 2^nd Year of Bachelors in Dental Surgery Degree from same Institute. The survey composed of specially designed questionnaire to record students’ perspectives regarding Preclinical Restorative Dental Course. Student’s t-test was applied to the data. Data was analyzed using SPSS version 23.

Results: Out of 245 dental professionals, 75 (30.6%) were males and 170 (69.4%) were females. The overall mean age of participants was 22.24±1.5 years (age range of 20 – 27 years). 233(95.1%) responders reported that the course of preclinical restoration dentistry provided a valuable addition to their clinical practice. There were 240 out of 245 (97.9%) responders who suggested that this course was beneficial for improving their psychomotor skills. More than 85% students were satisfied with the course curriculum, teaching strategies and assessment methodology. However, 58.3%% reported the course workload to be extensive. One suggestion would be to consider extending the course to two years to reduce workload and improve outcomes.

Conclusion: Student’s perceptions on preclinical restorative dentistry curriculum was found to be positive. However, improvements regarding reducing stress levels and better workload manageability are required. Further studies are needed to be carried out in other dental colleges too.