OBJECTIVETo develop a three-dimensional multimedia system for enhancing the efficiency of dental education and chairside communication.

METHODSA set of three-dimensional digital models of normal teeth and jaws related to dental education in prosthodontics were acquired or established under Microsoft Windows. The three-dimensional models were re-edited and rendered with texture attached, producing a large number of three-dimensional pictures and short animated pictures. A software platform was established for displaying all sorts of media, including the three-dimensional models. Finally, all media files produced or gathered before were integrated into the platform, similar to the textbook in chapter adopted in dental education at university.

RESULTSThe prosthodontic three-dimensional multimedia system was successfully developed. The system covered basic information within the current textbook of prosthodontics, three-dimensional pictures, animated pictures, and virtual three-dimensional scenes. The system might serve as an assistant tool in dental education and chairside communication.

CONCLUSIONSIt is technically feasible to establish the prosthodontic three-dimensional multimedia system, according to experiences in this study. The success also anticipates the possibility and feasibility of developing similar systems in other disciplines of dentistry.