Lucia Cevidanes

University of North Carolina

We are indebted to the AAOF for supporting our current research.  As a junior faculty member in the Orthodontic Department at the University of North Carolina School of Dentistry, I am most grateful to the AAOF for funding the Robert E. Binder Teaching Fellowship Award.  Our profession depends on support of research by independent investigators and I am happy to be counted in this group.  Since joining the faculty in 2005 and working with Dr. William Proffit, I have been working with 3D superimposition techniques to measure changes with growth and treatment, developing several software programs to analyze 3D data, and have published numerous related articles.  The AAOF award has enabled me to continue my research efforts and has most certainly helped to provide a better understanding of asymmetry and improved treatment options for these complex problems.  My research continues to develop 3D analysis methods to quantify facial asymmetry and improve pre-surgical characterization of jaw deformities.  This award has also enabled me to strengthen my clinical and teaching skills, as well as strengthed my clinical  research background, as I work to develop an independent research program in 3D imaging for diagnosis, treatment planning and follow-up for orthodontic and orthognathic surgical treatment.  The AAOF award has provided the assistance needed in preparation of grant materials and publications, thus allowing me to devote significant time to develop my clinical care and teaching abilities that are vital for me to achieve my career goals and to make meaningful contributions to orthodontic academics.  The AAOF has a continuing role to play as a major supporter for current and future educators and researchers.