Tooth identification puzzle: A method of teaching and learning tooth morphology.

Abstract

The present report outlines a method of teaching/learning tooth morphology by tooth identification puzzle. Students are presented with sets of extracted human teeth comprising complete dentitions except deciduous incisors and canines. The task is to place the teeth in correct positions in a schematic dentition diagram. The course, including 2-3 introductory lectures and a final test of one hour, has a time frame of 14-16hours. A total of 506 2nd year students from several years participated. The course is much appreciated by the students who experience a marked progress in skills. In the final test, 51.8% of the students had no faults, whilst 3% failed (more than 12 faults). The average number of faults per student was 2.3. Of the 20240 positioned teeth 5.7% were misplaced. The most frequently misplaced teeth were mandibular central incisors, maxillary second premolars and mandibular first premolars. The most common type of fault was inside determination. The course is cost-effective and facilitates learning through its multifaceted activity with involvement of many senses. An important asset is the appreciation of variations in tooth morphology. The course provides an arena for close and positive interaction between students and teachers.