A dedicated simulation clinic at the University of Sydney is providing dentistry students with structured opportunities to develop technical skills, clinical judgement and confidence before they begin treating patients.
The facility is equipped with contemporary dental technology, including intraoral cameras, digital radiography software and workstations designed to replicate private practice environments. Students practise procedures such as fillings, crowns, restorations and root canal therapies using plastic teeth placed into mannequin heads. The clinic also features dispensing machines that supply various tooth models used for different training activities.
Students begin hands-on simulation within their first weeks of study, integrating theoretical learning with practical exercises in areas such as anatomy, design and technique. The programme encourages collaborative learning, with students supporting each other in developing clinical reasoning and procedural accuracy.
The simulation resources aim to mirror real clinical workflows. Students are taught to consider patient comfort, relevant medical conditions and treatment planning as part of their training. Working alongside dental assistants and other clinical staff also prepares them for multidisciplinary practice.
The clinic is managed to support a wide range of courses, accommodating more than 500 students from the Doctor of Dental Medicine and Bachelor of Oral Health programmes. Teaching staff employ tools such as cameras, microscopes, 3D models and scanners to address different learning needs. Adjustments can also be made for individual requirements, including workstation configurations for left-handed students.
From their second year, students begin providing supervised dental care at Sydney Dental Hospital and Westmead Hospital. These sessions allow them to apply their skills in real clinical settings while offering treatment at no cost to patients.
According to teaching staff, the combination of simulation-based practice and supervised patient care is intended to help students transition steadily from classroom learning to real-world clinical responsibilities.
All images courtesy of University of Sydney.
Source: University of Sydney
