An alternative approach to prevention: computer-assisted patient education.

Computer-assisted instruction is a reliable, viable, and increasingly popular method for patient education. CAI programs are easy to use, nonintimidating to the patient, and enjoyable. CAI is a relatively new, but effective method of "spreading the word" to those who most desperately need the information. As technology advances, more computer-based patient education programs will become available to the dental health-care profession. The computer based education center will become a useful and integral component of the dental office of the future.