2017 AAO Annual Session - Expanding the Scope of Cephalometrics with Shape Analysis / Integrating Technology and Biomedicine Towards Precision Orthodontics / Up in the Air: Orthodontic Technology Unplugged!

Expanding the Scope of Cephalometrics with Shape Analysis

Orthodontists have relied heavily on cephalometric analysis, although shortcomings of using linear and angular measurements are well known. A new area of analysis, which examines the shape of objects, has been increasingly used to help clinicians determine more accurate diagnoses as well as identify factors that contribute to treatment outcomes. This presentation will describe how shape analysis is done, and give some examples of how it is currently used in orthodontic diagnosis.

Learning Objectives:

• Recognize the shortcomings of linear and angular cephalometric measurements and recognize the value of shape analysis.
• Identify the steps in shape analysis.
• Describe clinical situations where shape analysis can be helpful.

Integrating Technology and Biomedicine Towards Precision Orthodontics

Advances in computer, imaging and biomedical technologies are being rapidly integrated into orthodontics to deliver increasingly customized therapy, enhance treatment efficiency, and launch the era of “precision orthodontics.” These enhancements have facilitated the launching of the era of “precision orthodontics.” The goal of this presentation is to highlight advances in computer technologies and biomedicine that have direct applications to precision orthodontics. Advances in computer hardware and software, and 3D imaging technologies offer the ability for customized 3D treatment and biomechanical planning. These technologies combined with 3D printing are already being applied to customized appliance fabrication in the form of aligners and retainers. The prospect for custom fabrication of orthodontic brackets of appropriate material properties is a highly desirable and compelling goal that appears to be increasingly plausible. Within biomedicine, the biomodulation of cartilage growth and bone biology is currently being tested to modify mandibular growth and modulate tooth movement, respectively. It is conceivable that such discoveries will ultimately have clinical applications in orthodontics. Given these evolutions, precision orthodontics is expected to become part of the repertoire in providing customized, effective and efficient orthodontic treatment to our patients in the not too distant future.

Learning Objectives:

• Outline the optimized utilization of 3D imaging in diagnosis, treatment and biomechanic planning.
• Assess the efficacy of current and emerging novel methods to expedite tooth movement.
• Deduce the convergence of technology and biomedicine in delivering efficient and effective precision orthodontics.

Up in the Air: Orthodontic Technology Unplugged!

The "tap and swipe" culture has touched every sphere of our lives. Orthodontics has embraced technology wholeheartedly,and this infusion has altered the face of our diagnostic, mechano-therapeutic, appliance design, didactic and management protocols. The physical forms of most orthodontic entities are slowly but surely being replaced by digital and cloud applications that are 'up in the air', and have altered the dynamics of the 'orthodontic experience'.

Learning Objectives:

• Classify the applications of technolgy in contemporary orthodontics.
• Assess Patient and Clinician knowledge, perceptions and preferences on use of specific technology applications in orthodontics.
• Critically analyze and relate to futuristic applications of technology that can potentially change the face of orthodontic care.