Aim: Virtual reality (VR) technologies can be used as a content-delivery system for the purposes of both entertainment and education. Remote and digital education has become increasingly important in a world where disruptive events such as global pandemics and natural disasters can define access to face-to-face learning environments. An important aspect of VR technologies for dentistry is the creation of digital 3D models. The primary objective of the present review was to answer the focused research question: “What software techniques are used in the creation of digital 3D models for use in dental education?”
Methods: The study systematically evaluated current software and techniques used for creating digital 3D models in dental education using PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses).
Results: The search strategies did not find any specific studies relating to the creation of dental-related 3D models. Therefore, this is the first study to provide an overview of common techniques of 3D model fabrication. In addition, some examples of methods of creating 3D models relevant to dentistry such as armamentarium and anatomical oral structures are discussed in considerable detail.
Conclusion: The creation of 3D modeling is a rapidly evolving field, with software updates and new programs being continually released. The present study highlights the fundamental lack of published work in the creation of 3D dental models for educational applications.
Keywords: 3D modeling, dental education, dentistry, digital modeling, polygonal modeling, virtual reality
