Penerapan Simulasi Virtual Reality Sebagai Alat Bantu Pelatihan Ekstraksi Sisa Akar (Gangren Radix) Pada Mahasiswa Profesi Kedokteran Gigi

Abstract

Oral and dental health is an integral part of overall health, yet it is often overlooked. One common problem encountered is retained root or Gangren Radix, which becomes a major reason for tooth extraction procedures. Dental professional students face challenges in learning the extraction of retained roots due to the limitations of static phantom models and the difficulty of obtaining patients for real clinical practice. This study was designed to implement Virtual Reality (VR) as a simulation medium for learning retained root extraction, aiming to provide a more interactive and realistic learning experience.To achieve this goal, a research and development (R&D) method was employed, which included stages of 3D model design using Blender, application development using Unity, and testing on Meta Quest 2 and computer devices. The trial involved one dental expert and eleven dental professional students. The assessment instrument consisted of questionnaires covering technical and visual aspects, procedure and interactivity, as well as usefulness and comfort. The results showed that 96.36% of respondents agreed that the VR simulation made the learning process more engaging and enjoyable, and encouraged more active participation in practicing clinical skills. Meanwhile, the lowest score was found in the smoothness and stability of animation movements and system responses, receiving a total percentage of 81.81%. In addition, most respondents stated that the simulation was beneficial in reducing the risk of errors when treating real patients. In conclusion, the VR application for retained root extraction simulation performed well, followed clinical procedures, and was deemed feasible to be used as a dynamic and interactive alternative learning medium that helps students improve their skills before performing direct procedures on patients.