Speakers - 2026

Title: Virtual visions: Augmented reality’s future impact on the dental world

Abstract

Among the most revolutionary changes in the field of technology and medicine, augmented reality is phenomenal. AR is defined as a live direct or indirect view of a physical environment whose elements are augmented by the fusion of computer-generated and real-time images. The complexity and need for precision in head and neck imaging demands next level approach for surgical treatment planning. Augmented reality can provide data beyond current advanced CT, MR imaging techniques. The working of AR in head and neck region consists of capturing the patient in 2D and 3D and reconstruction databases. With HoloLens camera, depth sensor and self-localization achieved through monitor. The resultant image projected through Optimal see through head mounted display (OST-HMD). The application runs through 50-60-frames/sec. AR has been applied in clinical scenario such as shape, extend, spatial location of the tumor, with respect to bone, vital structures in surgical planning, providing immediate information about shape and extent of the pathology by looking at planar size at multiple orientations. AR can be used in mock surgeries using model, prior to orthognathic surgery. AR has been used for training the future dentists conceptualize complex anatomy of head and neck inner ear, maxillary sinus - teeth anatomy, nasal anatomy, etc. AR has been successfully used in head and neck imaging and surgical planning, among esteemed universities in the world - University of Alabama in February 2023. This review presentation will include case scenarios, where augmented reality has been used successfully and its potential future applications. This reviews the impact and most recent pathways for dentistry since a augmented reality program - Medivis  is the First to Receive FDA Clearance for Augmented Reality Navigation in Neurosurgery as of December 2025.