Search Results (102)

Background/Objectives: The dental profession is undergoing significant transformation driven by societal changes, technological advancements, evolving patient expectations, and increased attention to sustainability. These developments challenge traditional notions of dental competence and highlight the need for educational frameworks that support adaptability and longitudinal professional development. The aim of this study was to develop a contextually grounded competence framework for undergraduate dental education through an iterative, multi-method process informed by key educational stakeholders. Methods: A multi-method approach was used, combining a preparatory phase (literature review, interviews) with a development phase (drafting and workshops) that was revisited in response to feedback, followed by iterative voting rounds that prompted further minor revisions. A deductive exploratory mapping analysis aligned the emerging framework with existing intended learning outcomes across the curriculum. Results: The multi-method process produced descriptions of a framework that deliberately integrates roles, skills, and attributes to capture key dimensions of professional competence in dentistry. The framework includes six domains: ‘Evidence-informed’, ‘Decision-maker’, ‘Communicator’, ‘Acting with professional conduct’, ‘Health ambassador’, and ‘Collaborator and leader’. Across voting rounds, the domains were generally rated between ‘neutral’ and ‘very important’, with each round prompting minor revisions. Mapping suggested alignment between the overarching framework and the detailed curriculum. Conclusions: This study presents the outcome of a structured, exploratory multi-method process to develop a locally relevant competence framework, integrated into a dental education. The participatory design supported clarity and relevance. While sharing similarities with existing frameworks, the new framework also includes differences. The term ‘professional conduct’ was preferred rather than ‘professionalism’, and the domains ‘collaborator and leader’ and ‘decision-maker’ were identified as relevant according to employer expectations. Although the work was based locally at one dental school, the approach may be transferable to similar contexts. Full article

Background: Empathy and a positive attitude are essential competencies in healthcare, particularly when caring for older adults. Their development is therefore a critical component of undergraduate dental education. This study evaluates whether using aging simulation suits can enhance empathy and improve attitudes toward older adults among dental students. Methods: Third- to fifth-year dental students from the University Clinics of Dental Medicine in Geneva, Switzerland, participated in an aging-simulation experience using the GERonTologic age simulation suit (GERT^®), which replicates age-related physical impairments. Students performed tasks in four predefined scenarios, both with and without the suit. Changes in empathy and attitudes were measured using the Jefferson Scale of Empathy-Health Profession Students’ version (JSE-HPS) and the Geriatric Attitudes Scale (GAS) questionnaires. Perceptions of the intervention were evaluated using a 5-point Likert scale questionnaire. Results: Sixty-three undergraduate students (45 women, 18 men), aged 20–53 years, participated. The suit significantly impaired their physical abilities (p < 0.001). Empathy improved post-intervention (p = 0.038), particularly in the third-year group. Attitude towards older adults improved significantly post-intervention (p = 0.001), mainly among fourth- and fifth-year students. All participants endorsed the positive value of the intervention. Conclusions: The intervention’s impact varied by clinical experience: empathy increased mainly in less experienced students, while attitudes improved in those with more exposure to elderly care. This suggests that the timing of simulation within the curriculum influences outcomes. Aging simulation represents a promising educational approach to enhance empathy, improve attitudes toward older adults, and prepare dental students for the clinical and psychosocial aspects of geriatric care. Full article

Background/Objectives: Empathy is a core component of professional competence in dentistry, influencing patient-centered care and treatment outcomes. Evidence suggests that empathy may decline during clinical training, but data from Lithuanian dental students are lacking. This study aimed to assess empathy levels and subscale patterns among Lithuanian dental students and examine their association with academic year. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among third- to fifth-year dental students at the two universities in Lithuania. The Lithuanian version of the Jefferson Scale of Empathy–Health Professions Students (JSE-HPS) was used to measure total empathy and three subscales: Perspective Taking (PT), Compassionate Care (CC), and Standing in the Patient’s Shoes (SPS). Internal consistency was assessed using Cronbach’s alpha. Factor validity was examined via principal component analysis with Varimax rotation and Kaiser normalization. Differences across academic years were analyzed using Kruskal–Wallis tests. Results: A total of 252 students completed the questionnaire (response rate: 93%). The Lithuanian JSE-HPS demonstrated good internal consistency (α = 0.808) and confirmed a three-factor structure. The mean total empathy score was 106.07 ± 12.55. JSE-HPS scores differed significantly between dental classes (p < 0.001). Fifth-year students had significantly lower JSE-HPS scores than third- and fourth-year students (101.65 vs. 107.05 and 109.36; p = 0.035 and p = 0.007). PT and CC scores significantly declined in fifth-year students compared with earlier years, whereas SPS scores remained stable. Conclusions: The Lithuanian version of the JSE-HPS is a reliable and psychometrically sound tool for assessing empathy. Clinical training was significantly associated with a decline in total empathy scores among Lithuanian dental students, highlighting the impact of academic progression on both cognitive and affective components of empathy. Given the cross-sectional design, causal inferences cannot be drawn. Full article

Background: Dental emergencies are increasing in frequency. Numerous studies have reported minimal knowledge and/or skills by emergency department staff regarding dental emergencies. The COVID-19 pandemic has prompted a paradigm shift in emergency dental care management away from traditional management approaches. However, there have been no reviews of contemporary literature pertaining to either technology-assisted or interprofessional education and dental emergency management in the emergency department setting. This mini-review aimed to synthesise current evidence of interprofessional education, utilising technology-assisted modalities, for the management of dental emergencies in hospital emergency departments. Methods: A comprehensive search was carried out across four electronic databases, Medline, Embase, CINAHL, and Google Scholar from 2018 to 2025. Results: A total of three papers were identified and included in the mini-review. Two of the three papers addressed the subject of dental emergencies in the emergency department as a primary finding. Discussion: Included papers were of low-quality evidence and referenced simulation-based education, tele-dentistry, and artificial intelligence as contemporary approaches relating to dental emergency management. Conclusions: This mini-review revealed minimal advances in contemporary approaches relating to both the use of technology-assisted modalities and interprofessional education for the management of dental emergencies within the hospital emergency department setting. This review provides a timely literature update for both the medical and dental professions and identifies a large gap in research surrounding this topic. Full article

Background: Integrity, encompassing honesty, accountability, and ethical conduct, is a cornerstone of the dental profession, essential for patient trust and safety. Despite its importance, academic dishonesty remains a pervasive issue in dental education globally. This review examines the prevalence, causes, and long-term career implications of academic dishonesty in dental education and explores institutional strategies to cultivate a culture of integrity. Method: The study was conducted using PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar to identify studies published between 1970 and 2025 on academic dishonesty in dental education. Search terms included dental students, cheating, plagiarism, and clinical falsification. Eligible studies reported prevalence, drivers, or consequences of dishonest behaviors. Data were extracted and thematically synthesized to highlight common patterns and professional implications. Results: Self-reported data indicate alarmingly high rates of cheating among dental students, ranging from 43% to over 90%. Common forms include exam fraud, plagiarism, and the falsification of clinical records. Key drivers include intense academic pressure, competitive environments, and a perception of weak enforcement. Such behaviors are not merely academic violations—they have profound professional consequences. A history of academic dishonesty can damage a student’s reputation, hinder licensure and credentialing processes, and limit postgraduate opportunities. Crucially, studies indicate that unethical behavior in school can normalize dishonesty, predicting a higher likelihood of future professional misconduct, such as insurance fraud or malpractice, thereby jeopardizing patient care and public trust. Conclusions: Academic integrity is a critical predictor of professional ethical conduct. Dental schools must move beyond punitive policies to implement proactive, multi-faceted approaches. This includes integrating comprehensive ethics curricula, fostering reflective practice, promoting faculty role modeling, and empowering student-led initiatives to uphold honor codes. Cultivating an unwavering culture of integrity is essential not only for academic success but for developing trustworthy practitioners committed to lifelong ethical patient care. Full article

The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) tools, such as the chat generative pre-trained transformer (ChatGPT), into health professions education is rapidly accelerating, creating new opportunities for personalized learning and clinical preparation. These tools have demonstrated the potential to enhance learning efficiency and critical thinking. However, concerns regarding reliability, academic integrity, and potential overreliance highlight the need to better understand how healthcare students adopt and perceive these technologies in order to guide their effective and responsible integration into educational frameworks. This nationwide, cross-sectional, survey-based study was conducted between February and April 2024 among undergraduate students enrolled in medical, pharmacy, nursing, dental, and allied health programs in Saudi Arabia. An online questionnaire collected data on ChatGPT usage patterns, satisfaction, perceived benefits and risks, and attitudes toward integrating them into the curricula. Among 1044 participants, the prevalence of ChatGPT use was 69.25% (n = 723). Students primarily utilized the tool for content summarization, assignment preparation, and exam-related study. Key motivators included time efficiency and convenience, with improved learning efficiency and reduced study stress identified as major benefits. Conversely, major challenges included subscription costs and difficulties in formulating effective prompts. Furthermore, concerns regarding overreliance and academic misconduct were frequently reported. In conclusion, the adoption of generative AI tools such as ChatGPT among healthcare students in Saudi Arabia was high, driven by its perceived ability to enhance learning efficiency and personalization. To maximize its benefits and minimize risks, institutions should establish clear policies, provide faculty oversight, and integrate AI literacy into the education of health professionals. Full article

Background: The widespread use of antibiotics in dentistry has become a significant driver of the global rise in antibiotic resistance, posing serious risks to both oral and overall health. Objectives: This study aims to review antibiotic use in dentistry, elucidates the mechanisms of resistance development, identifies contributing factors, and discusses strategies to mitigate this growing global health threat. Methods: This narrative review examines current patterns of antibiotic prescribing in dentistry and evaluates evidence showing that antibiotics, although essential for preventing and managing odontogenic infections, are often prescribed unnecessarily or inappropriately. Results: The analysis highlights the growing resistance of key oral pathogens such as Streptococcus spp., Enterococcus faecalis, and Porphyromonas gingivalis, which increasingly limits the effectiveness of conventional treatments. Factors contributing to this trend include inconsistent adherence to clinical guidelines, patient pressure, and insufficient awareness of antibiotics stewardship among dental professionals. To address these challenges, the review emphasizes the importance of evidence-based prescription, strengthened stewardship programs, and the development of alternative therapies, including host-modulating agents and bacteriophage applications. Ongoing education and professional development are equally vital to enhance clinical judgment and promote responsible prescribing habits. Conclusions: Overcoming antibiotic resistance in dentistry requires coordinated effort among clinicians, researchers, educators, and policymakers. Expanding surveillance, enforcing stewardship-driven policies, and supporting innovation in therapeutic research are key to reducing antibiotic misuse and preserving their effectiveness. Through collective commitment and informed practice, the dental profession can play a crucial role in protecting antibiotic efficacy and promoting sustainable, high-quality patient care. Full article

Objectives: Narratives related to root canal treatment on social media can be problematic. This research examines discourses relating to root canal treatment on the popular platform Instagram. Through this analysis, the way different health discourses relating to endodontics are being communicated to the public and consumers will be explored. Methods: A search was conducted on Instagram to access consumer-focused information related to root canal treatment. Posts were identified, transcribed to capture the audio component in text form, and watched cyclically, with analytical memos being kept on video content. A social semiotic analysis was conducted on posts to capture the multimodal nature of discourse on endodontics. Results: A total of 100 Instagram posts were included in this study. Two overarching themes were used to structure the analysis of posts: (1) presentation of root canal treatment and (2) presentation of expertise. The majority of posts were negative in tone towards root canal treatment. Conclusions: The variety and nature of the misinformation featured in this research present a complex professional challenge for dentistry. The majority of the posts identified and analysed featured sensationalised explanations of dental disease and treatment processes, blended with inaccuracies, many of which were produced by dentists. Conspiracy discourses relating to root canal treatment were also encountered, which questioned the integrity and intentions of the dental profession. Full article

Background: The Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE) is a widely used assessment tool in education in the health profession. Understanding faculty perceptions of the OSCE regarding fairness, validity, reliability, and effectiveness is essential to enhancing its implementation in dental education in Saudi Arabia. Objective: To assess dental faculty members’ perceptions of the OSCE as an assessment method in Saudi Arabia, focusing on its fairness, reliability, validity, and effectiveness compared to other assessment formats. Methods: A cross-sectional analytical survey-based study was conducted among dental faculty members across 11 dental colleges in Saudi Arabia. A modified validated questionnaire was distributed electronically through the college deans to faculty members. Responses were analyzed using SPSS v25, applying descriptive and inferential statistics (chi-square test, significance set at p ≤ 0.05). Results: A total of 181 faculty responses from 11 Saudi dental colleges indicated broad support for the OSCE as a fair (78.3%), well-structured (71.1%), and comprehensive assessment of clinical skills (70%). While nearly half found it less stressful than other formats, 30% still perceived it as intimidating. Faculty agreed that OSCE tasks reflected taught content (65.9%), instructions were clear (75.7%), and scores were largely standardized and unbiased (63.9–72.9%). Compared with other assessment methods, essays/ short-answer questions (SAQs) were viewed as most effective for learning, but the OSCE was most favored for continued use in clinical training (52.8%). Conclusions: Faculty members in Saudi dental schools generally view the OSCE as a fair, valid, and effective assessment method. Despite concerns about student preparedness and perceived difficulty, the OSCE is endorsed as a key tool for evaluating clinical competencies. Addressing these concerns may further enhance its educational value and implementation. Full article

Background/Objectives: Dental professionals engage in a variety of dental procedures within a confined workspace that is often challenging to access and navigate. This environment frequently results in static, asymmetrical, and inappropriate postures, which can lead to muscular imbalances and cause pain or damage to the musculoskeletal system. Such issues can adversely affect the dental workforce, resulting in increased absenteeism, reduced productivity, disability, and premature retirement from the profession. Therefore, the objective of this study was to develop and evaluate the performance of an Artificial Intelligence (AI)-based deep learning model designed to assess dental ergonomics. Methods: An AI-based Dental Ergonomic Posture Assessment Model [SBK-DentErgo] was developed through the strategic integration of YOLOv11 and MediaPipe. Model training and validation were conducted using 500 photographs of dental professionals performing procedures on patients, captured from both frontal and sagittal planes. In the initial phase of the study, two calibrated evaluators assessed 50 photographs, demonstrating excellent agreement. In the subsequent phase, five dental specialists, along with the AI model, evaluated the same set of photographs, and the results were recorded. Results: AI-based model demonstrated excellent agreement with that of calibrated evaluators (Kappa = 0.922, p = 0.000). The reliability of AI-based scores was also consistent (ICC = 1.000, p = 0.000). Human evaluation of ergonomic posture exhibited very low sensitivity (20.5%) compared to AI, which showed very high sensitivity (97%). The specificity of human evaluation was also extremely low (9.1%) in contrast to AI (85.7%). The AI model (AUC = 0.917, 95% CI 0.762–1.000) could serve as the ‘gold standard’ in evaluating dental operator ergonomics. Conclusions: This AI model demonstrated exceptional performance in evaluating the working postures of dental professionals, surpassing experienced specialists in both sensitivity and specificity. The model provides real-time feedback, enabling dentists to conduct self-assessments and correct their posture immediately, thereby preventing postural issues. Full article

Background/Objectives: Standard dental practice is being reshaped by digital technologies, and artificial intelligence (AI) is emerging as one of the most challenging recent innovations. Methods: The present study assessed the interest of Romanian dentists in the integration of AI into their current practice through an anonymous questionnaire distributed to 200 respondents. The questionnaire addressed the integration of AI in dentistry by analyzing the following areas of intervention: stages of patient care, perceived impact on the doctor–patient relationship, data security, implementation costs, and the legislative framework. Results: The results showed that 53.6% of dentists reported low difficulties, 37.3% reported moderate difficulties, and 9.1% reported high difficulties with using digital tools. Dentists’ reported willingness to adopt AI-based solutions was as follows: 58.6% were very willing, 30% were moderately willing, and only 11.4% were not very willing. Currently, 80.5% already use digital techniques in their daily practice. The participants emphasized the need to maintain a strong doctor–patient relationship while recognizing the benefits of increased efficiency. They were aware of the risk of diminishing human connection and trust. Also, data security and the financial stress associated with implementing and maintaining new systems were seen as major obstacles. Conclusions: The dentists surveyed showed an increased interest in modern digital technologies, provided that there is a clear legal framework, a strong data protection system, and the preservation of the doctor–patient relationship based on trust and confidentiality that defines the medical profession. Full article

Background: The present study investigated the relation between dental inclination, colorimetric variation, and aesthetic perception according to the modification of incisor inclination. Smile aesthetics, shaped by morphological factors and patient perception, are vital for social attractiveness and treatment success. This study aimed to assess the effect of varying head tilt on the perceived colour of upper central incisors by simulating changes in torque of the tooth, as well as evaluate factors influencing the perception of an aesthetic smile, including morphological characteristics and gingival aesthetic parameters. Methods: The study was comprised of three stages: colour analysis, evaluation of micro- and mini-aesthetic smile features, and an image-based assessment to determine evaluator perceptions and overall smile attractiveness. A sample of 50 students with complete, lesion-free anterior dentition was analysed. To simulate the effect of orthodontic torque changes during colour analysis, subjects tilted their heads downward and upward, representing palatal and buccal crown torque, respectively. Standardized macro-intraoral photographs were captured under controlled lighting conditions using a DSLR camera stabilized on a tripod in the different positions: the neutral head position (p0), 15° upward (p + 15), and 15° downward (p − 15). Digital colour analysis was conducted in the CIELAB colour space (L*, a*, b*). In the next stage, focusing on micro- and mini-aesthetic evaluation, an additional 50 smiles were generated using artificial intelligence via the SmileCloud program—one digitally enhanced smile per subject—complementing the initial set of 50 spontaneous smiles. These 100 smile images were evaluated by 50 laypersons and 50 dentists using a visual analogue scale via an online questionnaire, in order to assess perceptions, determine smile attractiveness, and quantify gingival aesthetic parameters. Results: The statistically significant regression results are as follows: those for the L* values in all three head inclinations: downward (−15 degrees), upward (+15 degrees), and total tilting (−15 to +15 degrees), as well as for the a* values for downward tilting and the b* values for total tilting. When the head is tilted downwards, the central incisors are positioned retrusively, and the L* b* values reveal a darker and more yellowish appearance, whereas, with the head tilted upwards, the central incisors protrude, and L* a* values indicate a brighter and more greenish appear. In the evaluation stage of the smile aesthetics study, no significant differences were observed in the judgments between laypersons and dentists or between males and females. Smiles with a high or average anterior line, parallel arc, upward lip curvature, visible first/second premolars, a smile index of 5.08–5.87, and symmetry score of 1.04 were rated as more attractive. Significant asymmetries were observed between upper dental hemi-quadrants in gingival contour and interdental papilla height, highlighting subtle morphological variations relevant to smile aesthetics. Conclusions: Aesthetic assessment revealed that the findings suggest a measurable impact of head position on dental colour perception and aesthetic evaluation. Evaluator variables including profession and gender exerted negligible effects on aesthetic perception, whereas smile attractiveness features and gingival aesthetic parameters demonstrate significant clinical applicability in patient management. Full article

Background: Burnout syndrome (BS) is an occupational condition resulting from chronic stress, characterized by three dimensions, emotional exhaustion (EE), depersonalization (DE), and diminished personal accomplishment (PA), particularly prevalent in caregiving professions such as healthcare. The aim of this study is to analyse the prevalence of BS among Spanish dental implantology specialists, along with the impact of demographic, educational, and professional aspects. Methods: This is a cross-sectional observational study based on the STROBE (Strengthening the Reporting of Observational Studies in Epidemiology) guidelines and was open to respondents from May to December 2024. An electronic survey based on the Maslach Burnout Inventory—Human Services Survey (MBI–HSS) was sent to members of the Spanish Society of Implants. The data were analysed using descriptive analysis. Results: A total of 305 participants (20.9%) (31.5% females and 68.5% males) completed the questionnaire. The prevalence of BS was 4.3%; however, 61.0% of the dentists showed signs of suffering from the syndrome. The mean values of EE were “average” (20.3 ± 13.8) and of DE and EE “low” (5.1 ± 5.9, and 32.5 ± 14.5, respectively). The factors significantly associated with suffering from BS were being female and having more than 20 years of experience in dental implant treatments. Conclusions: It is advisable to conduct instructive and awareness-raising initiatives among dental professionals to promote an awareness of their mental health, ultimately aiming at preserving their physical and emotional well-being while delivering optimal care to their patients. Full article

This review offers a historical overview of the role of women in the modern dental profession, tracing their journey from the earliest pioneers to the present day and highlighting their significant achievements. The second main section presents a narrative analysis of the current situation, focusing on the main challenges faced by female dentists in advancing their careers in clinical practice, academia, and leadership roles. Finally, the discussion connects these issues with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) of the 2030 Agenda and explores support models for women’s empowerment in the health sciences, with a particular emphasis on dentistry. Full article

The dental profession has a high prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders because daily working life is characterized by many monotonous and one-sided physical exertions. Inertial measurement unit (IMU)-based motion capture (MoCap) is increasingly utilized for assessing workplace postural risk. However, practical alternatives are needed because it is time-consuming and relatively cost intensive for ergonomists. This study compared two measurement technologies: IMU-based MoCap and a time-effective alternative, two-dimensional (2D) pose estimation. Forty-five dental assistant students (all female) were included (age: 19.56 ± 5.91 years; height: 165.00 ± 6.35 cm; weight: 63.41 ± 13.87 kg; BMI: 21.56 ± 4.63 kg/m²). A 30 s IMU-based MoCap and image-based pose estimation in the sagittal and frontal planes were performed during a representative experimental task. Data were analyzed using Cohen’s weighted kappa and Bland–Altman plots. There was a significant moderate agreement between the Rapid Upper Limb Assessment (RULA) score from IMU-based MoCap and pose estimation (κ = 0.461, pB = 0.006), but no significant poor agreement (p > 0.05) regarding the body regions of the upper arm, lower arm, wrist, neck, and trunk. These findings indicate that IMU-based MoCap and pose estimation moderately align when assessing the overall RULA score but not for specific body parts. While pose estimation might be useful for quick general posture assessment, it may not be reliable for evaluating joint-level differences, especially in body areas such as the upper extremities. Future research should focus on refining video-based pose estimation for real-time postural risk assessment in the workplace. Full article