Members 
Computer Imaging Sneaks a Peek at the Future
ST. LOUIS, Missouri – It is now possible to literally "picture" yourself with a gorgeous smile. That's what potential orthodontic patients can do, thanks to a remarkable computer-imaging program.
The American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) has already provided thousands of people with a free, computer-generated photograph showing how their teeth might look after successful orthodontic treatment. The centerpiece of this program is the "Smile Bank," a unique data bank of beautiful smiles created to help demonstrate how effective orthodontics can be. Hundreds of photographs of smiles, taken of actual patients after orthodontic treatment, have been programmed into the AAO's state-of-the-art Smile Bank.
Computer-imaging can provide benefits to potential patients
If a person is thinking about getting braces, computer-imaging can provide - free of charge - a preview of what might be expected from orthodontic treatment. The opportunity to view a possible end-result prior to actual treatment offers a benefit to the patient, who will be making a commitment to obtain a beautiful, healthy smile.
The process of computer-imaging is simple and quick. Via a video camera, the computer captures a person's image. An orthodontist then compares the person's smile to hundreds of beautiful smiles stored in the computer's memory. Within minutes, the computer can print out a side-by-side comparison of the current smile and a future one as it might appear after orthodontic treatment. While the resulting photograph is obviously an approximation of what orthodontics can accomplish, it can be useful in discerning the possible results of treatment. Individuals are encouraged to see an orthodontist to discuss how orthodontics could benefit their smiles and overall oral health.
The computerized photograph can help motivate the patient who is contemplating undergoing orthodontic care. Plus, this "after" photo can provide a real incentive for the patient to cooperate with required orthodontic treatment. For example, the photos encourage patients as they change eating habits (not always required). And they receive support to faithfully use auxiliary devices, such as headgear and elastics, which are sometimes required.
How to participate
To receive a complimentary computer-generated photo of how you might look after orthodontic treatment, send a color photograph to the AAO. The photo should be a clear, close-up front view, with a wide, "toothy" smile.
Mail, with your name, address and phone number, to "SMILES," American Association of Orthodontists, 401 North Lindbergh Blvd., St. Louis, MO 63141-7816.
Printer-friendly page ]
Computer-imaging can provide benefits to potential patients
If a person is thinking about getting braces, computer-imaging can provide - free of charge - a preview of what might be expected from orthodontic treatment. The opportunity to view a possible end-result prior to actual treatment offers a benefit to the patient, who will be making a commitment to obtain a beautiful, healthy smile.
The process of computer-imaging is simple and quick. Via a video camera, the computer captures a person's image. An orthodontist then compares the person's smile to hundreds of beautiful smiles stored in the computer's memory. Within minutes, the computer can print out a side-by-side comparison of the current smile and a future one as it might appear after orthodontic treatment. While the resulting photograph is obviously an approximation of what orthodontics can accomplish, it can be useful in discerning the possible results of treatment. Individuals are encouraged to see an orthodontist to discuss how orthodontics could benefit their smiles and overall oral health.
The computerized photograph can help motivate the patient who is contemplating undergoing orthodontic care. Plus, this "after" photo can provide a real incentive for the patient to cooperate with required orthodontic treatment. For example, the photos encourage patients as they change eating habits (not always required). And they receive support to faithfully use auxiliary devices, such as headgear and elastics, which are sometimes required.
How to participate
To receive a complimentary computer-generated photo of how you might look after orthodontic treatment, send a color photograph to the AAO. The photo should be a clear, close-up front view, with a wide, "toothy" smile.
Mail, with your name, address and phone number, to "SMILES," American Association of Orthodontists, 401 North Lindbergh Blvd., St. Louis, MO 63141-7816.
SOURCE: American Association of Orthodontists
[ Printer-friendly page ]
