The role of computers in dentofacial research and the development of diagnostic aids.

Abstract Growth studies provide data for norms and growth standards and, to some extent, make predictions possible. Since the measurements are used to construct norms, they must be derived from valid and reliable landmarks in addition to being accurate. Facial bones grow in three dimensions and therefore must be studied in three dimensions simultaneously. A three-dimensional method which satisfies all these requirements has been developed with assistance from computers. Some studies of individual bones, cranium, dentition, and occlusion using experimental and statistical methods made feasible by automatic data processing are described. The role of computers in the development of predictive methods based on complex statistical procedures is discussed. A computerized discriminant procedure distinguishing normal from abnormal is mentioned. The possibility of reading roentgenograms and photographs automatically by means of scanning devices is considered. It may be possible in the future to construct more accurate and reliable norms, develop predictive methods which are clinically useful, and process patients' records automatically, all with assistance of computers and better scanning devices.