[Simulation with a pre-clinical training system. 1. Practice in operative dentistry using an experimental manequin articulator, jaw model, and artificial teeth].

Clinical practice with patients is the most important part of education for dental students. However there are considerable difference between lecture, basic practice, and clinical practice. Therefore it is difficult to go from basic practice to clinical practice. To overcome this, we developed and introduced a Pre-Clinical Training system using a newly designed manequin, articulater, jaw model, and artificial teeth. This manequin is very similar to patients in appearance. The mandibular part used a semi-adjustable arcon type articulator. The artificial teeth were made of two types of synthetic resins with different hardness for use in operative dentistry. The teeth also have caries areas made of soft black resin. Using this system, the students practiced oral examination, cavity preparation and restoration in operative dentistry.