Augmented reality in orthodontics: The way ahead

Abstract

Augmented Reality is a favorable and definitive pedagogical approach for integrating formal learning. E-learning combined with Augmented Reality (AR) technology can surpass traditional learning methods if the system is tailored to include components of smart learning and evaluation of knowledge on devices ubiquitously in the absence of tutors. AR is predicted to transform and become the fundamental user interface of the twenty-first century. Augmented reality, instead, generates an interaction between the real environment and virtual objects. The use of augmented reality permits direct visualization bypassing the last transfer step, which means, on a large scale, to avoid data and time loss. Visualization of digital data directly on the patient means the possibility of achieving great advantages in digital procedures. This review briefly summarizes history, definitions, features and components of augmented reality technology and discusses its avenues and applications in orthodontics.