Intraoral tomosynthesis systems, methods and computer readable media for dental imaging

Abstract

Intraoral tomosynthesis systems, methods, and computer readable media for dental imaging are provided. The system includes an x-ray source containing multiple focal spots spatially distributed on one or multiple anodes in an evacuated chamber, an x-ray detector for positioning inside a mouth of a patient, a device for determining imaging geometry of the intraoral tomosynthesis system; and control electronics configured to regulate the x-ray source, by sequentially activating each of the multiple focal spots, such that multiple two dimensional (2D) projection images of the mouth of the patient are acquired from multiple viewing angles. In some aspects, the device for determining the imaging geometry can comprise a plate connectedly attached to the x-ray detector, at least one light source connectedly attached to the x-ray source, and a camera configured to capture at least one light spot produced by a projection of at least one light beam onto the plate.

Description

[0001] Cross References to Related Applications [0002] This patent application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Applications Serial No. 62 / 013,181, filed June 17, 2014, and U.S. Provisional Patent Applications, Serial No. 62 / 143,443, filed April 6, 2015, the entire contents of each Incorporated herein by reference. technical field [0003] The subject matter disclosed herein relates to radiography. More specifically, the subject matter disclosed herein relates to intraoral tomosynthesis systems, methods, and computer readable media for dental imaging. Background technique [0004] Dental radiology has undergone important changes over the past few decades. However, the need for more accurate diagnostic imaging methods continues to be a high priority. Intraoral dental X-rays were introduced just a year after Roentgen's discovery of X-ray radiation. Since then, advances in dental imaging have included more sensitive detector technology, panoramic imaging, digita...

AI Technical Summary

Problems solved by technology

However, CBCT also has several disadvantages compared to 2D radiography: (1) excessive noise and artifacts from metallic dental restorations / appliances degrade image quality; (2) acquisition, reconstruction, and interpretation times are greatly increased , which reduces clinical efficiency and increases financial costs; and (3) significantly higher doses of ionizing radiation increase the radiation burden on patients

Unfortunately, the limitations of TACT described above apply to these methods as well, primarily due to conventional single-focus X-ray tubes

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