Impact of augmented and virtual reality on dental education

Abstract

Dental education has undergone significant transformations with the incorporation of digital technologies, including augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR). These tools foster immersive, interactive learning environments free of patient risk, facilitating the acquisition of clinical and preclinical competencies. AR integrates virtual elements into the physical environment, whereas VR immerses the user in fully digital scenarios; both are employed in dental anatomy, restorative procedures, endodontics, surgery, and orthodontics. The objective of this study was to review and synthesize the evidence published over the past five years on the use of AR and VR in dental training, analyzing benefits, limitations, and perspectives for curricular integration. A search was conducted in PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science, considering original articles, systematic reviews, and experimental studies. The findings reveal significant pedagogical advantages: increased student motivation, improved knowledge retention, immediate feedback, and the possibility of repeated practice without compromising patient safety. However, limitations persist, such as implementation costs, unequal access among institutions, and a scarcity of longitudinal studies confirming long-term effectiveness. In conclusion, AR and VR represent promising resources for modernizing dental education; their consolidation will depend on stronger clinical research, methodological standardization, and gradual incorporation into curricula.