Dental Anesthesia VR Injection Simulation

Abstract

Problem: Pre-clinical dental and hygiene students must master local anesthesia injection techniques, yet live practice carries patient risk and scheduling constraints. Background: VR simulation can create a safe, repeatable environment for psychomotor skill development without patient exposure . Methods: We built a prototype in Unreal Engine 5 featuring: Anatomically accurate 3D head and soft-tissue models (Blender → Unity), Two needle sizes and color-coded cartridges that “snap” onto a syringe, A dental mirror tool selectable in either hand, Haptic-feedback controllers signaling incorrect angles (buzz) and excessive depth (resistance rumble), Two tutorial modes: guided in-VR prompts and a 2D screen-capture walkthrough. Status/Preliminary Outcomes: Core prototype functionality—tool selection, injection depth measurement, real-time haptic cues, and automated depth screenshot emails—is fully implemented. Internal testing confirms stable performance Implications: This VR tool establishes feasibility for safe, standardized anesthesia training and sets the stage for multi-procedure expansion and formal effectiveness trials