Clinical simulation: an educational tool in the learning of dental trauma

Abstract

Introduction: The management of dental trauma is an essential competency in the training of pediatric dentistry specialists due to its high prevalence and its impact on the physical and emotional health of children and adolescents. Accurate and timely care requires solid knowledge and specific clinical skills to act efficiently and safely in emergency contexts. Objective: To strengthen clinical competencies in the teaching of dental trauma management. Methodology: The Pediatric Dentistry specialty at Andrés Bello University (Chile) has incorporated an innovative methodology based on clinical simulation using 3D-printed resin models. These models, generated by scanning primary dentition and printed in resin, replicate dental anatomy with high fidelity and include a removable incisor that can be extracted from the socket, allowing the simulation of real emergency situations such as tooth repositioning and splinting. Clinical simulation is a strategy that effectively integrates theory and practice, supporting the development of technical skills in a safe, controlled, and repeatable environment. Conclusions: In the context of postgraduate dental education, this educational methodology represents a specialized training platform that enhances preparation for high-demand clinical scenarios, while also consolidating a culture of clinical excellence based on real clinical situations.