Abstract: Objective Supragingival scaling is an essential skill for dentist with high level of experience and sensitive force perception.In this study, we validated the effects of virtual reality simulator on the learning of supragingival scaling skills in preclinical training. Methods iDental was employed as the haptic device. A total of 39 participants (13 test group and 26 control group) were included in 2 groups. The 13 participants in test group completed the VR procedure followed by traditional training of supragingival scaling. And the 26 participants in control group performed the traditional training of supragingival scaling. All of the participants were scored by three clinical instructors through the traditional spuragingival scaling test. Results The analyzed results showed that the test group got higher scores than control group, especially tooth 36. Conclusions These findings suggested that the simulator training had positive effects on real supragingival scaling and iDental was helpful for the preclinical training.

Key words: Virtual reality, Simulator, Supragingival scaling, Preclinical training