The Institute of Dentistry at the University of Eastern Finland has added a 3D printer to its educational environment. It will be used to support both preclinical and clinical education, further enhancing the practical learning experience for students.
Currently, students at both levels have access to a unique set of advanced tools, including intraoral scanners, milling devices, and VR-haptic devices. The new 3D printer complements this range of equipment, allowing students to create precise dental models and develop critical hands-on skills in a modern, technology-driven educational environment.
“This investment ensures that our students receive the highest standard of practical training, equipping them with the latest techniques and tools to succeed in today’s dynamic field of dentistry, Professor Murat Mutluay says.
The key advantages of the new technology include enhanced customisation, faster production and cost-effectiveness. It enables students to practice with more realistic models and improves patient comfort as well.
Enhanced customisation supports diverse learning
3D printing allows for the creation of highly customised dental models and appliances tailored to individual student needs for personalised training. This precision is achieved through digital scans that provide accurate representations of a patient's oral structure, enabling the production of devices such as crowns, bridges, and orthodontic appliances that fit perfectly without the need for extensive adjustments. This level of customisation not only improves patient comfort but also contributes to better treatment outcomes.
“Traditional methods of creating dental components can be time-consuming, often taking days to weeks. In contrast, 3D printing can produce these items in a matter of hours, which is particularly beneficial in a clinical setting. This rapid turnaround also allows dental students to observe and participate in procedures more frequently, thereby enriching their educational experience,” University Teacher Outi Huhtela says.
In dental education, 3D printing in combination with VR-haptic reinforced training provides preclinical and clinical students with the opportunity to practice on realistic models that closely replicate patients’ anatomy. “This hands-on approach enhances learning and skill development, allowing students to gain practical experience before working with actual patients. The ability to create various dental models quickly also supports diverse learning scenarios, from routine procedures to complex surgical techniques,” University Teacher Szabolcs Felszeghy says.
Focus on patient-centred care
The patient’s experience is greatly enhanced through the use of 3D printing. Faster production times mean that patients can receive immediate care, such as same-day crowns or orthodontic devices. Additionally, the accuracy of 3D-printed appliances leads to better fits, which translates to increased comfort and satisfaction for patients. This focus on patient-centered care is a critical aspect of modern dental education, preparing students to meet the expectations of future patients.
In addition, 3D printing reduces costs associated with traditional manufacturing processes, minimises material waste and eliminates the need for storage of pre-made components.
3D printing can also serve as a valuable tool for research projects, enabling students and faculty members to prototype and test their ideas quickly. This capability supports innovation and experimentation, which are critical components of the research process.
The technology comprises an online platform enabling students and faculty members to connect and collaborate with peers and instructors around the world.
“As this technology continues to evolve, its role in dental education and practice is expected to expand, further revolutionising the field and opens new avenues for education and research at UEF’s Institute of Dentistry,” Felszeghy envisions.
