Phantom heads (Dental manikins)

Phantom heads (Dental manikins) are used for realistically simulating all types of dental treatment as well as ergonomic working or first aid procedures but without a real patient having to be present. Dental manikin are mainly used for demonstration, training and teaching purposes (lectures, courses, further education, studying).

Phantom heads are advantageous in that they can be used for testing, demonstrating and practicing known, new or experimental procedures. Time-consuming, complex, unpleasant or invasive working procedures can be standardised (by using educational model, teeth etc.) and carried out simultaneously (group training) or consecutively as often as required (repeat procedures). And the patient neither has to invest time nor is he subjected to risks or discomfort (as the outer and inner surfaces of the head can be disinfected) and, in addition, the operator is not exposed to the risk of infection.

Dental manikins consist of a multi-unit, rigid interior framework, usually lockable in various positions, which includes temporomandibular joints and prefabricated holders for retaining (via screw or magnet) various types of phantom model. Modern phantom heads also include a "jaw simulator" (resembling an articulator) with condylar assemblies (including adjustable parameters such as the inclination of condylar guidance) for carrying out natural jaw excursions.

The restricted view of and access to the oral cavity due to facial skin and soft tissues are imitated by an elastic rubber mask. Further features may include a water drain and trap, bench mounts, phantom torso and devices for attaching the phantom head to dental chairs. All parts of phantom heads can be replaced if necessary (damage, wear, change of application).