A systematic review of methodology for the creation of virtual 3D models for use in dental education and a narrative review.

Abstract

Virtual Reality (VR) technologies can be used as a content-delivery system for the purposes of both entertainment and education. Remote and digital education has become ever so important in a world where global disruptive events such as pandemics and natural disasters can define access to a face-to-face learning environment. An important aspect of VR technologies for dentistry is the creation of digital 3D models. The primary of this review was to answer the focused research question, "What software techniques are used in the creation of digital 3D models for use in dental education." This study systematically evaluates current software and techniques used for creating digital 3D models in dental education using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews (PRIMSA). The search strategies did not find any studies specific to the creation of dental-related 3D models. Therefore, this study for the first time provided an overview of common techniques of 3D model fabrication is discussed. Further some examples of methods of creating 3D models relevant to dentistry such armamentarium and anatomical oral structures have been discussed in considerable detail. The creation of 3D modelling is a rapidly evolving field with software updates and new programs being continually released. This work highlights fundamental lack of published work in the creation of 3D dental models for educational applications.