Preclinical Exercises in Electrosurgical Technique

Abstract

This article describes a basic laboratory exercise in the teaching of dental electrosurgery for certain restorative dental procedures. This step is a pedagogic approach for orientation to this modality prior to laboratory tissue specimen exercises and, finally, clinical application. It is hoped that through the use of this basic exercise students will become more familiar with electrosurgical instrumentation and that repeated exercises will stimulate clinical use with less apprehension. The advantages of using this exercise include the following (1) the instruments, methods, and materials for the exercise are economical, easily procured, and comprehensive; (2) the laboratory time involved is minimal; (3) the exercise can be taught in conjunction with restorative dentistry; and (4) this approach can stimulate student interest in tissue management and restorative dentistry.