Immersive Reality–Based Training Simulator for Dental Extraction: Protocol for a Randomized Pilot Trial

Background: Dental students’ competencies are shaped by their training, yet traditional methods with mannequins often lack the depth necessary for comprehensive understanding, potentially impacting clinical proficiency. Immersive reality (IR) innovatively offers interactive and scenario-based environments that may enhance skill acquisition. Objective: This study evaluates the effectiveness of IR-based training implementation in comparison with conventional training methods for dental extractions. Methods: A prospective multicenter randomized clinical trial was conducted. Students were randomized to either IR-based training on open and closed extractions or conventional hands-on tutorials by oral surgeons. Post training, participants’ satisfaction and understanding were assessed and analyzed. Results: As of September 2025, 60 students from Hasanuddin University, Makassar, and Padjajaran University, Bandung, have been enrolled, and study enrollment will be expanded to Universitas Sumatera Utara, Medan. Data collection is ongoing and will conclude in November 2025, with expected dissemination in early 2026. Conclusions: IR-based training offers a novel approach that may boost motivation, knowledge retention, and skill transfer in dental education. This pilot protocol explores IR’s feasibility and potential to advance dental students’ competencies.