Abstract
BACKGROUND: Mastery of orthodontic bracket bonding is an essential component of the undergraduate orthodontic curriculum. Traditional bracket bonding training using simple plaster models has some shortcomings, including a disconnect from clinical practice and poor perception of the criteria and accuracy. This study aims to optimize the bracket bonding course by comparing the traditional teaching method with simplified American Board of Orthodontics Objective Grading System (ABO-OGS)-oriented training methods. METHODS: Fourth-year dental students from Fujian Medical University, spanning the 2015 to 2017 cohorts, participated in the orthodontic bracket bonding course. Students from these three cohorts were trained using the traditional plaster model method, the digital 2D ABO-OGS-oriented method, and the typodont ABO-OGS-oriented method, respectively. After the course, students and teachers completed a six-level Likert scale questionnaire to evaluate the teaching objectives, methods, and efficacy. RESULTS: Both teachers and students agreed that the traditional bracket bonding training and the simplified ABO-OGS-oriented bracket bonding training were effective, with most students mastering the bracket bonding procedure. The simplified ABO-OGS-oriented bracket bonding was perceived as more novel and engaging compared to the traditional method (P < 0.05). However, the digital 2D ABO-OGS method was significantly less effective than the other two methods (P < 0.05). Instructors rated the typodont ABO-OGS-oriented training higher than the students did (P < 0.05). CONCLUSION: Both the traditional and simplified ABO-OGS-oriented courses for bracket bonding yielded favorable results, with the simplified ABO-OGS approach being more engaging and innovative. The findings emphasize the critical role of hands-on practice in achieving optimal proficiency in bracket bonding techniques. A hybrid educational model that integrates digital 2D or 3D ABO-OGS-oriented training with offline practical sessions shows considerable potential for qualifying training and examination of orthodontic residency students.