Computer-aided diagnosis and treatment planning.

As computers slowly permeate our dental practices, it becomes obvious that we have a choice: either accept and embrace this technology in order to survive, if not prosper, or we can reject it and sit on the sidelines and get left behind. Using a new patient examination scenario, five different types of computer-aided technology are explored. The clinical application of each piece of equipment is the focus. Extraoral video imaging, intraoral imaging, voice-activated periodontal charting, digital radiographs, and complete office management systems are discussed.