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Computer Imaging versus Conventional Esthetic Consultation: A Prospective Clinical Study |
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| Authors: | OLGA S. PAPASOTIRIOU DMD MSD DAN NATHANSON DMD MSD RONALD E. GOLDSTEIN DDS |
| Affiliation: | Graduate Student, Department of Restorative Sciences and Biomaterials, Henry M. Goldman School of Dental Medicine, Boston University, Boston, Massachusetts;Professor and Chairman, Department of Restorative Sciences and Biomaterials, Henry M. Goldman School of Dental Medicine, Boston University, Boston, Massachusetts;Private Practice, Atlanta, Georgia;Clinical Professor of Oral Rehabilitation, School of Dentistry, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta, Georgia;Adjunct Clinical Professor of Frosthodontics, Henry M. Goldman School of Dental Medicine, Boston University, Boston, Massachusetts;Visiting Professor of Oral and Maxillofacial Imaging and Continuing Education, School of Dentistry, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California;Adjunct Professor of Restorative Dentistry, University of Texas Health Science Center, San Antonio, Texas |
| Abstract: | Computer imaging can be helpful in demonstrating to patients the potential outcome of esthetic dental procedures. The current clinical study assesses the effectiveness of computer imaging by comparing the reactions of patient and dentist to conventional consultations versus the use of computer imaging. The responses from 35 subjects show that computer imaging consultations are more effective in helping patients decide to accept treatment. Patient satisfaction was higher (93.75%) with computer consultations than with conventional methods (83.3%). Computer imaging consultations were easier to conduct but significantly ( p < .05) more time consuming. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE This experiment confirms the role of computer imaging as an effective aid in esthetic dentistry consultations and treatment planning. Imaging facilitates communication between patient and practitioner and provides a more realistic view of anticipated treatment outcomes. |
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