Enhancing Operative Dentistry and Endodontics Education Through Telehealth: Integrating Digital Learning with Hands-On Training

Hafiz Rabbi Ul  Ehsan; Nadeem Ahmad  Rana; Marium  Arif; Syed Shan E Haider Naqvi; Muhammad Atae Mustafa  Mahayyudin; Shumaila  Maryum

doi:10.51253/pafmj.v75i5.13255

Authors

Hafiz Rabbi Ul Ehsan Department of Operative Dentistry and Endodontics, Armed Forces Institute of Dentistry Rawalpindi /National University of Medical Sciences (NUMS) Pakistan
Nadeem Ahmad Rana Department of Operative Dentistry and Endodontics, Armed Forces Institute of Dentistry Rawalpindi /National University of Medical Sciences (NUMS) Pakistan
Marium Arif Department of Operative Dentistry, Sehat Kahani Telehealth Services Karachi Pakistan
Syed Shan E Haider Naqvi Department of Operative Dentistry and Endodontics, Armed Forces Institute of Dentistry Rawalpindi /National University of Medical Sciences (NUMS) Pakistan
Muhammad Atae Mustafa Mahayyudin Department of Orthodontics,Nanchang University China
Shumaila Maryum Department of Operative Dentistry and Endodontics, Armed Forces Institute of Dentistry Rawalpindi /National University of Medical Sciences (NUMS) Pakistan

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.51253/pafmj.v75i5.13255

Keywords:

Clinical Competency, Dental Education, Digital Health Training, Learning, Telehealth

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate the effectiveness of telehealth in dental education by identifying training gaps and proposing a blended learning model integrating digital education with hands-on clinical experience.

Study Design: Quasi-experimental study (Pre-post interventional study)

Place and Duration of Study: Department of Operative Dentistry and Endodontics, Armed Forces Institute of Dentistry Rawalpindi, Pakistan, from Apr to Oct 2024.

Methodology: A total of 80 dental professionals, postgraduate students and practicing dentists participated in a structured telehealth-based workshop covering diagnostic skills, case-based learning, and treatment planning. The Telehealth Educational Environment Measurement Tool (THEEM) assessed participants’ perceptions, while pre- and post-intervention knowledge was measured using structured assessments. Paired t-tests were used to evaluate learning gains.

Results: The mean age of our participants was 32.52±4.69 years, with 61.25% males. Median THEEM scores showed domain-specific variation: Platform Usability remained stable, Internet Connectivity and Learning Engagement improved, while Instructor Support declined. Overall knowledge about THEEM significantly increased, with median pre-intervention scores of 114.25 (IQR 99.25–135.75) rising to 128.00 (IQR 110.00–147.50; p<0.001). Findings highlight notable gains in learning engagement and knowledge acquisition through telehealth.

Conclusion: Telehealth intervention significantly enhanced knowledge acquisition, confidence, and engagement in dental education. However, for clinical skill development, a hybrid model combining telehealth with hands-on training is essential. Addressing technical infrastructure and faculty training can further strengthen telehealth integration into dental curricula.

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