As dental hygiene programs across Canada continue to adapt to the continually changing needs of students and the job market, many colleges are discovering a common challenge: their aging radiology simulators are nearing the end of their usable life. For institutions where budgets are tight and every equipment purchase must deliver long-term value, the need for an affordable yet high-quality training solution has never been greater. Artificial radiology simulators—vetted and already in use in HARP compliant programs—are transforming how future hygienists learn and practice radiographic skills, offering reliability, digital sensor native practice, and cost-effectiveness that older systems simply can’t match.

The following are some things to consider

Artificial Simulators do not provide as realistic images as older simulators with natural bone: We do not disagree and will say that there will never be a replacement for natural bone and natural teeth based simulators. We will say that the current generation are pretty close. Gone are the days when artificial radiology models meant there was only contrast between bone and tooth. Current options show differences in bone density and delineation between crown, dentin and pulp for accurate training.

I really love having to hold the mouth in the closed position with a bungee cord: If you smirked and can relate to the last comment, we can assure you and your program are not alone - and sometimes you just have to do what you have to do. We get it. New simulators rely on a single moving part with a return spring that can be replaced in house within 5 minutes. No more late nights because one head is down, or frustrated students.

We can indefinitely send our natural bone head out for repair: While the mechanics of your head may be repairable the deterioration and density of the tissue are rapidly degrading. Sockets are porous, teeth are cracking at points where rebuilding the tissue (never a good idea) is the only option to secure a root. At some point the natural bone around the sockets and the natural roots are becoming brittle to a point where things are breaking with minimal force.

Natural tissue and teeth based simulators will always have a place in the clinic for showing variation from one patient to the next but are likely not a part of a long term plan for providing quality practical training.

The shift toward artificial simulation is no longer just an upgrade—it’s an essential step in keeping dental hygiene programs compliant, competitive, and capable of delivering high-quality education. Colleges that make this transition now are not only ensuring their students are prepared for certification success, but also protecting their institutions from costly downtime and obsolescence. With reliable, affordable simulation technology readily available, the future of dental radiology education in Canada is both secure and sustainable.

We are not associated with HARP and encourage research and due diligence before making any decisions.