3D‑printed training model for periodontal splinting: a randomized preclinical study

Clinical Snapshot

Key Findings

• P Value: p < 0.001

• Effect Size: 3-point improvement on 6-point ordinal scale (50% improvement)

• Primary Outcome: Self-reported preparedness for periodontal splinting improved significantly from poor (Md 5.0, IQR 1.0) to good (Md 2.0, IQR 1.0)

• Nnt Or Sensitivity: Not applicable for educational intervention study

• Confidence Interval: Not reported

Clinical Application

High feasibility given low cost of 3D printing technology and widespread availability in dental schools Highly relevant to Australian dental education programs; aligns with ADEA competency standards for dental graduates and could enhance practical skills training before clinical placement Dental students in preclinical training programs, particularly those learning periodontal splinting techniques

Abstract

Preclinical simulation is essential for students to practice before clinical treatment. A low-cost 3D-printed model was developed with repositionable mobile maxillary anterior teeth to train periodontal splinting and evaluate learner perception and repositioning accuracy. In a two-period randomized cross-over course 43 students in their fourth year completed two palatal slot splints from the right to the left maxillary canine (FDI 13-23) in randomized material order. They used a polyethylene ribbon and a pre-impregnated unidirectional glass-fibre bundle. Outcomes included an electronic questionnaire using an anchored 6‑point ordinal scale from 1 for "Excellent" to 6 for "Unsatisfactory" following the German school grading system and geometric deviation of each tooth to an ideal position. The course was rated overall as good (Md 2.0, IQR 1.0) and highly clinically relevant (Md 1.0, IQR 1.0). Self-reported preparedness for splinting improved from poor (Md 5.0, IQR 1.0) before the course to good (Md 2.0, IQR 1.0; p < 0.001) after the course. In this pilot study, no statistically detectable positional deviations between materials or between the first and second session in this cohort were observed. This inexpensive, reproducible 3D-printed model enables realistic periodontal splinting training under simulated mobility conditions and may support structured preparation for clinical teaching.

References

1. 1.Hoehne, C., Rehling, S., Schrenker, J., Jockel-Schneider, Y., Krastl, G., & Schmitter, M. (2026). 3D‑printed training model for periodontal splinting: a randomized preclinical study. Scientific Reports. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-020-70418-y