Table 3 Main themes emerging from responses to open-ended questions
Benefits/Â enablers of VRHS | Limitations/ barriers to of VRHS | Recommendations for improvement |
|---|---|---|
Safe environment for beginners | Unrealistic sensation/ hardness of teeth compared to natural teeth, not for transition to clinics | Dedicated time for VRHS sessions |
Multiple attempts possible, unlike irreversible damage in acrylic teeth | Dissimilar characteristic of VRHS handpiece to real handpiece in terms of grip, weight, and water spray | More practice on extracted natural teeth |
Perceived increase in confidence initially | Perceived increase in mental stress, cannot replace conventional dental mannequin experience | Improve handpiece grip and produce simulated water spray |
Exposure to/visualization of caries in fissures | Unrealistic maneuver range of head and jaw, dissimilar to real patient | Open/unlimited access to VRHS |
Ability to differentiate between tooth layers (enamel, dentin and pulp) | Impractical use of instruments such as mirror and burs | Ability to restore teeth |