BACKGROUND
Augmented Reality (AR) is a simulation of a three-dimensional environment created using hardware and software that provides the user with realistic experiences and ability to interact.
OBJECTIVE
The aim of the study was to evaluate the impact of AR simulator on the perception of learning and acute stress level in students administering local anesthesia to pediatric patients relative to standard teaching methods.
METHODS
The prospective study included 21 fourth- and fifth-year students enrolled in 5-year-dental program. In addition to conventional training, the students of the study group used the augmented reality simulator in a dental office 2h weekly in 2 weeks. The level of salivary cortisol was measured before and after the anesthetic procedure as one of the indicators of acute stress.
RESULTS
A statistically significant shorter time to perform infiltrative anesthesia technique for the anterior superior alveolar nerve was observed in students using the AR technique. The level of cortisol before and after anesthesia was statistically significant in all subjects, however, there was no statistically significant difference between the groups.
CONCLUSIONS
The AR concept may influence better manipulation and control of the syringe in students administering their first anesthetic injection to pediatric patients, but may not reduce acute stress.