An interactive computer-based training tool for using in
Orthodontics is aimed at students and experienced professionals who need to predict orthodontic treatment outcomes. Usually, treatment planning and the choice of a proper appliance model are based exclusively on clinician expertise, and most orthodontists work on a trial and error basis, estimating an "ideal" loading condition that can lead to a precise and aimed tooth movement. Therefore, the orthodontist and patient have a strong need for methods that enable them to compute realistic pictures of the expected teeth positioning to circumvent unexpectedly situations that may occur in practice. In this paper we present J-Ortho, an open-source orthodontic treatment simulator. To validate it, we use a one-year follow-up orthodontic treatment. Based on the data provided by this study, J-Ortho generates the 3D anatomical structures and appliance models from dental cast, X-Rays, and photographic records of the virtual patient. Morphing approaches and a 3D tooth movement simulator are implemented to represent the changes in shape that the dental arch performs. Initial investigation has proved that we have been able to set up the system to demonstrate behaviour that closely replicates real teeth movements, similar to our experimental studies. We expect our prototype to be a useful environment for training orthodontists, residents and students giving experience in both simulation and actual dental images as well as to explore and verify in practice the temporal evolution of the planned treatment.