Patient Images on the Internet: A Platform for the Communication Between Orthodontic Clinics

Certain diagnostic tools (eg, extra- and intraoral photographs, orthopantogram, lateral radiograph and model photos) are necessary at the start and during the course of an orthodontic treatment. These tools can now be shared with other medical professionals (eg, oral surgeon, dentist and orthodontist) involved in the treatment of a particular patient via the internet. This program creates better communication among the professionals concerned. The records of the patient are protected by a user name and a password. They make it possible for the patient to have access to his/her personal records at any time to see the progress of his/her treatment. This way, a patient can identify with the treatment, which should consequently improve the motivation and cooperation of the patient. Keywords: orthodontic diagnostics, internet, quality circle, motivation