Virtual modeling of gingiva adaptations to progressive orthodontic correction & associated methodology of appliance manufacture

Abstract

A system and associated methodology for the generation of digital models that account for the adaptation of the shape of the patient's gingiva is provided. The exemplary system uses an initial scan ofthe patient's gingiva as a base model, taking into account the type and morphology of the teeth, the shape, orientation and movements of the roots inside the gingiva, and other factors for a more accurate prediction of the changes in the shape of the gingiva throughout every step of the treatment. In particular, the system proactively determines the areas of the model that will be covered by thealigner and prevents changes to such areas, whereas the shape of the model outside these areas is altered in a way to minimize the size of model and to add any necessary features for the manufacturingof the aligners.

Description

[0001] Cross References to Related Applications [0002] This application claims priority to US Provisional Application No. US 62 / 340960, filed May 24, 2016. Background technique [0003] Orthodontic aligners offer an alternative to traditional braces, which typically use braces connected by wires to realign teeth. Braces are for patients with mild or moderate crowding of teeth or closely spaced teeth. Patients undergoing orthodontic treatment with aligners periodically replace their original aligners with new and progressively different aligners so that the teeth gradually move from a first position to a second position and eventually towards the desired final position. The course of treatment may last from months to years, depending on how badly the teeth are misaligned. Orthotics may be made of a plastic material such as acrylic, such as that provided by the present assignee, Round Rock, Texas Those orthotics manufactured. [0004] The technologies currently available ...

AI Technical Summary

Problems solved by technology

As a result, even if the aligners from the initial steps of treatment fit properly, inaccurate updates to the shape of the gums will lead to progressively worse fit of the aligners in subsequent steps of treatment

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