Method and analysis system for creating a digital 3D model of a patient's dentition - Patent Application 20070122999

Abstract

The method for creating a digital 3D model of a patient's dentition according to the present invention comprises, in a computing unit, generating a digital 3D model of a plurality of dentition variations, each of which comprises a combination of a digital 3D model of the patient's upper jaw and a digital 3D model of the patient's lower jaw, the plurality of dentition variations differing from one another in the relative positioning of the upper and lower jaws, respectively: - a digital 3D model of the patient's maxilla is combined with a digital 3D model of the mandible such that the maxilla and mandible rest on top of each other at several contact points without any spatial overlap of parts of the maxilla and mandible; - The contact surfaces between the upper and lower jaws are determined, This results in an optimized denture variation being selected for the 3D model of the denture, taking into account the contact surfaces.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a method for creating a digital 3D model of a patient's dentition, and to an analysis system suitable for carrying out the method, in particular for use in planning dental prostheses. [Background technology]

[0002] When planning dental prostheses, for orthodontic planning or in other areas of modern dental technology, in particular to improve the basis for decision-making in dentistry and dental technology, or the starting point for the use of CAD / CAM processes, the adjustment and analysis of a patient's initial dental situation, or an intermediate or final check of a therapeutic treatment, can be based on existing or digitally recorded data that accurately reflects the dental situation.

[0003] In modern dental treatment concepts, prostheses, such as crowns and / or implant-supported dentures, bridges, or similar devices, are typically fabricated by recreating the patient's oral condition as accurately as possible to achieve maximum fit and wear comfort for the patient in addition to the desired medical effect. In traditional treatment, it is common practice to take an impression of the patient's teeth using some type of kit, impression material, or other hardening substance to create a negative of the actual situation. This can then be used, for example, to create a plaster model. This plaster model can then be used as the basis for planning the fabrication and insertion of the dental prosthesis. These can then be digitized, for example, using an extraoral 3D scanner, allowing the dental work to be subsequently fabricated using digital technologies (CAD / CAM).

[0004] In more modern concepts, the patient's oral condition is digitally recorded, for example, by using an intraoral scanner to capture three-dimensional patient data reflecting the patient's oral condition. This three-dimensional data can then be used to create a 3D model of the patient's teeth (e.g., as a 3D print), which can then be used to plan a treatment plan and dentures for the patient using digital methods, which is significantly faster and more cost-effective than before. In particular, as a result of such digital planning, the required dental prosthesis can be automatically manufactured using the transferable 3D data.

[0005] However, these digital methods currently suffer from serious limitations. Due to the nature of dental engineering and the technical capabilities and limitations of scanners used to capture 3D patient data inside a patient's mouth, the patient's upper and lower jaws can only be captured separately from each other. After scanning the oral situation using, for example, an intraoral scanner, the data is therefore only available in the form of a digital 3D model of the patient's upper jaw on the one hand and a digital 3D model of the patient's lower jaw on the other hand. For an adequate reproduction of the patient's entire oral situation, these two partial models must be combined in a way that corresponds as closely as possible to the actual oral situation.

[0006] This combination of the digital 3D models of the patient's upper and lower jaws is called a "bite." The bite is the essential starting point for all further steps in dental technology to continue at an appropriate level and with a quality level acceptable to the patient. The technical devices used for this purpose to date, such as intraoral and extraoral 3D scanners for capturing digital tooth models, do not produce a bite that is accurate enough.

[0007] The current technological starting point is the digitization of the individual jaws, followed by manual alignment of the bite. The individual jaw scans are then compared (registered) with the bite scan and aligned accordingly. A Z-axis shift is typically used to eliminate intersections or overlaps between the two jaws. However, this approach is fundamentally unsatisfactory, as it can shift the jaws not only along the X-axis but also along the condylar path, rendering the approach incomplete. This creates a high error rate in the subsequent process chain from CAD (design) to CAM (manufacturing). Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0008] The present invention is therefore based on the task of providing a method for creating a digital 3D model of a patient's dentition, in particular for use in planning dental prostheses, which method makes it possible to create a complete digital 3D model of the patient's dentition with particularly high reliability and quality using existing digital 3D models of both the patient's upper and lower jaws. Furthermore, an automated analysis system that is particularly suitable for carrying out the method shall be specified. [Means for solving the problem]

[0009] With respect to the method, the task comprises: generating, in a computing unit, a plurality of dental variations, each comprising a combination of a digital 3D model of the patient's maxilla and a digital 3D model of the mandible, the dental variations differing from one another in the relative positioning of the maxilla and the mandible, in each case: - a digital 3D model of the patient's maxilla is combined with a digital 3D model of the mandible so that the maxilla and mandible rest on top of each other at several contact points without any spatial overlap of parts of the maxilla and mandible (often actually called "penetration"); - the contact surface between the upper and lower jaws is determined, The optimized denture variation is selected as the 3D model of the denture, taking into account the contact surfaces.

[0010] The present invention is based on the consideration that a dental model constructed from two components, i.e., the upper and lower jaw, can be envisaged to have a particularly high "fit accuracy" and thus to reproduce the actual oral situation of a patient as realistically as possible when the two components, i.e., the upper and lower jaw, fit together as closely as possible. The contact surfaces at which these components come into contact with each other are therefore envisaged according to one aspect of the present invention to be a particularly relevant criterion of fit accuracy and are taken into account accordingly.

[0011] According to one aspect of the present invention, which is considered independently inventive, static friction resulting from the planned displacement of the maxillary and mandibular components relative to one another can also be used as a basis for determining the accuracy of the fit. This is essentially described by the contact surfaces, but for a more precise evaluation, an individualized weighting of the contribution to static friction of each surface element can be performed depending on the inclination angle of each surface element relative to the intended direction of displacement of the components relative to one another. Surface elements with a relatively strong inclination relative to the displacement direction can, for example, be weighted with an increased contribution to static friction, since their shape alone means that they offer greater resistance to the intended displacement than relatively flat surface elements.

[0012] According to one aspect of the present invention, which is considered to be independently inventive, multiple dentition variations corresponding to the temporal sequence of chewing movements can be taken into account in the selection of a 3D model of the dentition. This is intended in particular to ensure that not only static aspects but also dynamic aspects, i.e., those occurring during chewing movements, are taken into account in the selection of the 3D model. Surprisingly, it has been found that these aspects can be particularly important for the care and perceived comfort of the patient when wearing a custom-made prosthesis.

[0013] According to a further aspect of the invention, different contributions to interdental friction can be appropriately taken into account, which can include, for example, contact friction (tooth enamel), fluid friction (saliva) and morphology-related interlocking effects.

[0014] Advantageously, the assessment of dentition variations also takes into account differences in the inclination of the maxilla relative to the mandible, which makes it possible to take into account six degrees of freedom when combining the two elements, i.e., the maxilla and the mandible.

[0015] According to one aspect of the present invention, the dental variation with the maximum contact surface between the upper and lower jaws can be selected as the 3D model of the dentition.

[0016] The use of artificial intelligence to generate and / or determine the selected dentition variations is particularly preferred, based on the consideration that determining the optimal locking point or the optimal combination of the upper and lower jaw models relative to each other is difficult to achieve using conventional modeling due to the complex frictional relationships between the teeth (static friction, fluid friction, interlocking effects, etc.), and is therefore provided by one aspect of the present invention, where a neural network is used to learn the required friction conditions as a basis for examples.

[0017] Using artificial intelligence, the occlusion algorithm can apply various modern techniques, from computer graphics to the 3D model of tooth structure in a preliminary analysis step, according to aspects of the present invention that are considered independently inventive. To this end, filters can be used to detect extrema and edges, and selective smoothing can be used with the aid of partial differential equations to detect relevant tooth regions. Additionally, principal component analysis and pattern recognition can be used to identify relevant features. The primary goal of the preliminary analysis is to extract as much information as possible about patterns, edges, and contour structures from the 3D model.

[0018] Based on the information acquired in the preliminary analysis, a hypercube-based algorithm for neuroevolution of the extended topology can be trained in a second step according to one embodiment of the present invention. For example, 1,875 training examples are used to teach the algorithm how to accurately calculate the occlusion. According to one embodiment of the present invention, the key concept in this second step is training the neural network to determine the correct occlusion. Through the learning process, the neural network is advantageously extended to be able to adapt its topology. This flexibility allows the information acquired during the preliminary analysis to be effectively used and combined, thereby increasing the neural network's freedom in learning and calculating the correct occlusion.

[0019] Various filters and techniques from the field of computer graphics can be used in accordance with embodiments of the present invention to extract relevant information from the 3D model, after which a special neural network is advantageously trained to calculate the occlusion based on the extracted information.

[0020] In addition to the AI-driven evaluation of static occlusion, dynamic occlusion can be determined by AI-assisted analysis of tooth surface shape. Again, hypercube-based algorithms are advantageously used for neuroevolution of the extended topology. Additionally, possible temporomandibular joint movements can be described by a differential-algebraic inequality system. From a Bayesian statistical perspective, the differential-algebraic inequality system forms a priority distribution. According to one aspect of the present invention, this distribution is continuously fine-tuned by the AI ​​using information derived from tooth shape, thus gradually approaching the limits possible in terms of information theory.

[0021] With respect to an automated analysis system for use in planning dental prostheses, the aforementioned tasks are: A first computing device including a memory that stores non-transitory instructions, the non-transitory instructions, when executed by one or more processors of the first computing device, causing the first computing device to: Retrieving the digital 3D models of the patient's maxilla and mandible from a second computing device comprising a mass storage device having stored thereon a digital 3D model of the patient's maxilla and a digital 3D model of the patient's mandible; for a plurality of dental variations, each comprising a combination of a digital 3D model of the patient's upper jaw and a digital 3D model of the patient's lower jaw, differing from one another in the relative positioning of the upper and lower jaws, in each case: - combining a digital 3D model of the patient's maxilla and a digital 3D model of the mandible such that the maxilla and mandible rest on top of each other at several contact points without any spatial overlap of parts of the maxilla and mandible; -Determine the contact surface between the upper and lower jaws, The problem is solved by having a first computing device select an optimized dentition variation as a 3D model of the dentition, taking into account the contact surfaces.

[0022] Preferably, when executed by the one or more processors of the first computing device, the non-transitory command causes the first computing device to consider different dentition variations in the inclination of the maxilla relative to the mandible.

[0023] Preferably, when executed by one or more processors of the first computing device, the non-transitory command causes the first computing device to select as the 3D model of the dentition a dentition variation in which the contact surfaces of the upper and lower jaws are maximized, in accordance with one aspect of the present invention.

[0024] In particular, according to one aspect of the present invention, a concept is provided for fully automatic simulation of occlusion determination and finding the perfect possible bite between two digital tooth models. The underlying algorithm preferably processes two digital models (of the upper and lower jaws in any orientation) and determines the perfect bite by simulating jaw movements. For alignment, according to one aspect of the present invention, a self-learning algorithm is used that finds a basic alignment based on many digital models.

[0025] One aspect of the present invention may provide for positioning a model within a patient-specific 3D image (DVT, MRI, CT) and calculating joint positions based on the results calculated by the aforementioned algorithm of static occlusion.

[0026] According to an aspect that is considered independently inventive, a 3D model of the dentition determined and selected according to the concepts described above can be used as the basis for the fabrication of a dental prosthesis.

[0027] In advantageous embodiments, the following additional algorithms may be used individually or in combination with one another as desired: -Repair the model. -Close holes and remove or reduce artifacts. - Virtually lossless file size reduction using proprietary compression algorithms (faster CAD processing, storage efficiency, etc.) - Socket / Scan and print. -The models are waterproof sealed and filenames are engraved (+aligned) so that they can be sent directly to a 3D printer for the generation of spatial models. -Dynamic occlusion. - Perform a simulation of all possible mandibular movements based on Bennett angles, condylar trajectories, and bruxism planes. According to one aspect of the invention, movements ("ISS", Immediate Side Shift) can also be taken into account. The output can advantageously be in XML file format, allowing further processing in CAD software to design dentures and take individual movements into account. -After calculation, bite elevation (VDO) can be performed, thereby simultaneously taking into account jaw movements, which can be an important component for the design of splints, tabletops, or other restorations / appliances that require / positively influence bite elevation.

[0028] The advantages achieved by the invention are in particular: - Significantly improve efficiency in laboratories and dental practices (= reduce lost time), -Significantly reduce rejection rate, lowering manufacturing costs and reducing material consumption. -Increase the level of automation (= lower costs and faster delivery), -The software is easy to use and provides automated quality control, addressing the skilled labor shortage; - Significantly improve quality (no multiple visits to the dentist or follow-up treatment for patients because their dentures did not fit properly), -It is the missing piece of the puzzle to complete the digital workflow (currently, laboratories still have analog intermediate steps with manual adjustments).

[0029] According to further aspects, each of which is considered independently inventive, the described concepts may be supplemented by the following. - Integration of 2D and / or 3D X-ray images of the patient's dental situation, which makes it possible to enrich and supplement information intended in particular for use with artificial intelligence, thereby further improving the results. - Integration with clinical photography or 3D facial scans to determine joint positions with sufficient accuracy. -Automatic quality control check of the final CAD design using static and dynamic data and assigning these to a rating scale before triggering further automatic or manual steps. -Adapts the 3D base through dynamics and statics to automatically dock onto the physical articulator. -Further chewing simulation. - Algorithm-based bite force calculation. - Automatic integration of additional patient-related data or files (new scans, scanbody scans, etc.). - Creation of an occlusal record with (preferably anterior / posterior) comparison of contact points. -Specifications / instructions for subsequent design. - Automatic optimization of crown position based on contact and mechanics. -Simulation of crown movement and expansion within the mandible through mechanics. - "4D Jaw Movement Over Time" - Simulates jaw movement over several years to visualize the effects on tooth substance (this shows patients the effects of bruxism over time and motivates them to take further treatment steps such as bruxism splints). -Create the desired cusp / contact point distribution and based on this create the bruxism protocol (as a 2D or 3D file for generation) to eliminate premature contacts that prevent this situation from becoming status quo. -Using habitual jaw movements from dental or prosthetic situations to develop customized follow-up prostheses. - Automatic tabletop design based on situation and jaw movement to establish new bite position. -Model quality control (automatic comparison and calculation of score values ​​between 3D model scans and 3D CAD models). - Monitoring (comparison and recommendations for model-based behavior over time, e.g. during annual dental visits; display of changes, bruxism surfaces, etc.).

[0030] Further advantageous aspects of the present invention may include, for example, the following in the form of corresponding modules or integrated functionality: - "Save with Transform" module: this can provide the option to read only the vertices from the 3D format and manipulate these with a rotation matrix. In fact, the rotation matrix is ​​precisely the calculated transformation needed to bring the model into occlusion. An idea considered independently inventive here is that the 3D format does not need to be completely resaved, since additional information such as color information may be lost in the process. It is also possible to transform "attached" models such as bridges into occlusion. - Marking feature in the GUI (Graphical User Interface): This allows the user to specify whether certain areas should be in contact or ignored. This gives the user the opportunity to influence the occlusion calculation. For example, the user can mark the gums and thus allow for greater penetration in the gum area (the gums collapse when biting). - Option to adjust penetration depth, which allows the user to set the maximum penetration depth and thus create more / larger or less / smaller contact. - Option to perform bite elevation based on dynamic occlusion data. -Preparing a report (e.g. video) comparing before and after situations based on touch points and evaluating these using indicators.

[0031] In particular, different occlusion algorithms can be provided from which the user can choose: -If the model is already close to occlusion, a local algorithm can be used to restrict the allowed movement of the mandible to the occlusal position. -If the model is far from occlusion, a global algorithm can be used that does not limit the allowed movements.

[0032] The "Bite Finder" concept described above thus allows the upper and lower jaws to be scanned using an extraoral scanner with the proper dentition, without a third scan of the bite that would otherwise be required. Thus, "Bite Finder" is an inventive concept that simplifies the creation of a digital 3D model of a patient's bite, thereby transforming dental practices and laboratories. This technology is revolutionizing the dental industry by providing a more efficient, accurate, and cost-effective method for bite analysis, adjustment, and treatment planning. According to aspects of the present invention, it includes the following major components:

[0033] Byte Data Acquisition Bite Finder loads digital 3D models of both the patient's upper and lower jaws. This data can be captured using a variety of means, such as an intraoral scanner or 3D dental imaging technology.

[0034] AI-assisted alignment One aspect of Bite Finder that is considered independently inventive is its AI-powered alignment feature. After digital models of the upper and lower jaws are available, the system uses sophisticated algorithms to align these models with unparalleled precision. Unlike traditional methods that rely solely on adjusting the Z-axis, Bite Finder takes into account various degrees of freedom, including translation and rotation, to ensure the upper and lower jaws fit seamlessly together.

[0035] Occlusion and penetration analysis According to one aspect of the invention, the Bite Finder performs a detailed analysis of the aligned model to identify occlusion and penetration issues. Through comprehensive simulation and calculation, the system determines the optimal bite position by adjusting the contact points between the teeth. This process ensures that the patient's bite is in perfect harmony, resulting in improved comfort and better treatment outcomes.

[0036] Dynamic Bite Simulation In addition to static bite adjustment, one aspect of the present invention offers the possibility of dynamic bite simulation, which can replicate patient-specific jaw movements so that dentists and dental technicians can assess how the bite behaves during real-life activities such as chewing and speaking. This capability improves the accuracy of restorative treatment and appliance design.

[0037] Automated Model Refinement Bite Finder goes beyond bite correction. It can also repair models, close holes, remove artifacts, reduce file size using a proprietary compression algorithm, and prepare models for 3D printing. These features contribute to a streamlined and efficient workflow.

[0038] Quality Control and Assurance To maintain high quality standards, Bite Finder has automatic quality control, which ensures that bite adjustments and models meet industry and clinical standards.

[0039] In addition, predictions can be made about the development of bruxism surfaces or wear.

[0040] Specific benefits and advantages of the present invention can be seen, inter alia, below. Accuracy: AI-driven alignment and analysis produces highly accurate bite corrections, reducing rework and the risk of errors. Efficiency: By automating complex processes, Bite Finder significantly reduces the time required for bite analysis and treatment planning. Cost-effective: Fewer manual adjustments, less material waste, and a more efficient workflow result in cost savings for dental practices and laboratories. Patient Comfort: With accurate bite adjustment, patients experience greater comfort during treatment. Versatility: Bite Finder can be used in a variety of dental specialties, from general dentistry to orthodontics and prosthodontics.

[0041] The Bite Finder concept, as described in one aspect of the present invention, is a breakthrough invention that brings efficiency, accuracy, and affordability to the dental industry. By combining digital technology, AI algorithms, and 3D modeling, it simplifies the process of creating accurate 3D bite models, ultimately improving the quality of patient care and dental treatment. The "Bite Finder" enables dentists and dental technicians to work more effectively and provide superior dental solutions to their patients.

[0042] process: - Preview and send to lab for use (and pay).

[0043] According to one aspect of the present invention, the following can be considered inventive: 1. A method for creating a digital 3D model of a patient's bite, comprising: a. capturing a digital 3D model of the patient's upper and lower jaws using one or more imaging devices; b. Using artificial intelligence algorithms to align digital 3D models of the maxilla and mandible, taking into account translation, rotation and degrees of freedom; c. Performing occlusion and penetration analysis to determine optimal bite position by adjusting interdental contact points; d. Generating a dynamic bite simulation to replicate patient-specific jaw movements for bite analysis.

[0044] The following additional features may also be provided: Repairing digital models, closing holes, and removing artifacts to improve model quality; and / or Reduce file size using a proprietary compression algorithm while maintaining the integrity of the model.

[0045] In some embodiments, dynamic bite simulation replicates real-life activities such as chewing and speaking to assess bite functionality, and / or Automating the preparation of digital models for 3D printing, and / or Automated quality control checks are performed to ensure that the bite adjustments and models meet predetermined quality standards; and / or a computer program product comprising computer readable instructions stored on a non-transitory computer readable medium for performing the method described above; and / or 1. An artificial intelligence control system for creating a digital 3D model of a patient's bite, comprising: a. one or more imaging devices for capturing a digital 3D model of the patient's upper and / or lower jaw; b. a processing unit configured to align the digital 3D models of the maxilla and mandible using artificial intelligence algorithms, taking into account translation, rotation, and degrees of freedom; c. An analysis module for performing occlusion and penetration analysis to determine optimal bite alignment by adjusting interdental contact points.

[0046] This can be supplemented by the following, according to aspects of the invention. A dynamic simulation module to generate dynamic bite simulations and replicate patient-specific jaw movements for bite analysis; and / or a quality control module to automate quality control checks to ensure that bite adjustments and models meet predetermined quality standards; and / or Modules for repairing digital models, closing holes, removing artifacts and improving model quality; and / or A module for reducing file size using a proprietary compression algorithm while maintaining the integrity of the model, and / or A dynamic simulation module provides the ability to simulate real-life activities such as chewing and speaking to assess bite functionality; and / or A module for automating the preparation of digital models for 3D printing, and / or A user interface for dental professionals to interact with the system.

[0047] Further advantages of the present invention can be seen below. 1. Improved Accuracy: Byte Finder uses advanced artificial intelligence (AI) algorithms to ensure highly accurate bite alignment, reducing the risk of errors and rework. 2. Increased Efficiency: The system significantly reduces the time required for bite analysis and treatment planning, improving the efficiency of the overall workflow. 3. Cost Savings: Fewer manual adjustments, reduced material waste, and improved workflow efficiency result in cost savings for dental practices and laboratories. 4. Improved Patient Comfort: Precise bite adjustment improves patient comfort during procedures and treatments. 5. Versatility: Bite Finder can be used in a variety of dental specialties, from general dentistry to orthodontics and prosthodontics, making it a versatile tool for dentists. 6. Streamlined Workflow: The system simplifies the workflow for dentists and dental technicians by automating complex processes such as model repair, hole filling, artifact removal, and file size reduction. 7. Automated Model Preparation: Byte Finder automates the preparation of digital models for 3D printing, saving time and reducing the need for manual intervention. 8. Quality Control: Automated quality control ensures bite adjustments and models meet industry and clinical standards, reducing the chance of suboptimal results. 9. Reduced Errors: By minimizing manual intervention and reliance on human judgment, Byte Finder reduces the chance of human error, leading to more consistent results. 10. Cost-Effective CAD / CAM Processing: Proprietary compression algorithms reduce file sizes without compromising model quality, enabling more cost-effective processing. 11. Addressing Industry Challenges: Bite Finder addresses existing challenges in the dental industry, such as the need for more accurate bite modeling and the demand for automation to address labor shortages. 12. Improved Treatment Planning: Dynamic bite simulation allows dentists to assess bite functionality during real-life activities such as chewing and speaking, resulting in improved treatment planning. 13. Patient Satisfaction: Precise bite adjustment improves the fit and comfort of orthodontic appliances, resulting in greater patient satisfaction and less post-treatment dissatisfaction. 14. Real-time Feedback: Dentists receive real-time feedback on bite adjustments and treatment plans, allowing for quick adjustments and improvements. 15. Versatile Use: The Bite Finder can be used for a variety of dental procedures including restorative care, orthodontics, implantology, etc., making it a versatile tool in a variety of dental practices. 16. Integration Capabilities: The system can be integrated with other dental technologies such as 2D and 3D imaging, clinical photography, and facial scanning to enrich information and improve results. 17. Potential for further innovation: Bite Finder's modular design allows for the integration of additional algorithms and features, paving the way for further innovation in the dental field.

[0048] Preferred fields of application and areas of use can be found below. 1. Prostheses: Precise bite correction for crown, bridge and prosthetic fabrication. Assessment and correction of occlusal discrepancies in prosthodontic treatment. 2. Orthodontics: Assessment of bite relationships in orthodontic cases. Simulation of jaw movement for orthodontic treatment planning. 3. Implantology: Analysis of occlusal consistency for implant-assisted restorations. Ensure optimal occlusion for implant planning. 4. Restorative Dentistry: Bite analysis for restorative procedures such as fillings and veneers. Check the occlusal fit of the restorative material. 5. Occlusal analysis: Comprehensive occlusal analysis to determine bite discrepancies. Identification and correction of occlusal interferences. 6. Temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ): Assessment of jaw movement and bite relationship in cases of temporomandibular joint disorders. Plan treatment to correct your temporomandibular joint problems. 7. Treatment Plan: Simulation of bite functionality during treatment planning. Treatment plan optimization based on dynamic bite analysis. 8. Post-treatment assessment: Check bite accuracy and comfort after dental treatment. Post-treatment adjustments and fine tuning based on bite analysis. 9. Prosthetic restoration: Bite Finder can be used to optimize the fit and comfort of a variety of prosthetic restorations, including full-arch reconstructions and partial dentures. 10. Removable devices: Analysis of bite relationships in removable appliances such as partial dentures. Ensure a comfortable fit for patients with removable dentures. 11.Quality control: Continuous quality control in dental laboratories to verify the accuracy of digital models. Identify and correct problems in digital models before they lead to clinical issues. 12. Dental Education: Training and education of dental students and professionals in bite analysis and adjustment. Simulation and teaching of bite-related concepts in a virtual environment. 13. CAD / CAM Integration: Integration with Computer-Aided Design and Computer-Aided Manufacturing (CAD / CAM) for a seamless digital workflow within the dental lab. 14. Collaboration with other professionals: By providing a common digital platform for bite analysis, it facilitates collaboration between dentists, for example, orthodontists, prosthodontists, and oral surgeons. 15. Research and Development: Supports dental research and development by providing accurate bite modeling and analysis capabilities for research and experimentation. 16. Post-traumatic cases: Assessment and correction of bite problems resulting from dental trauma. Restore bite function and appearance in post-traumatic cases. 17. Pediatric Dentistry: Analysis and adjustment of bite in pediatric patients for various dental procedures. Ensure proper occlusion and alignment in growing children. 18. Multidisciplinary cases: Involvement in complex multidisciplinary cases involving multiple dentists in treatment planning and delivery. 19. Continuous monitoring: Continuous bite monitoring in denture patients to ensure long-term comfort and effectiveness.

Claims

1. 1. A method for creating a digital 3D model of a patient's dentition, comprising in a computer unit, for a plurality of dentition variations differing from one another in the relative positioning of the upper and lower jaw, each comprising a combination of a digital 3D model of the patient's upper jaw and a digital 3D model of the patient's lower jaw, the following is carried out in each case: the digital 3D model of the maxilla is combined with the digital 3D model of the patient's mandible such that the maxilla and mandible rest on top of each other at several contact points without any spatial overlap of portions of the maxilla and mandible; a contact surface between the upper and lower jaws is determined; A method wherein an optimized dentition variation is selected as the 3D model of the dentition, taking into account the contact surfaces.

2. The method of claim 1 , wherein different dentition variations in the inclination of the upper jaw relative to the lower jaw are taken into account.

3. 3. The method according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the dentition variation is selected such that the contact surface between the upper and lower jaws is at a maximum value.

4. 4. The method according to claim 1, wherein a plurality of dentition variations corresponding to a temporal sequence in chewing movements are taken into account for the selection of the 3D model of the dentition.

5. 5. The method according to claim 1, wherein the generation of the dentition variations and / or the determination of the selected dentition variations is performed by artificial intelligence.

6. An automated analysis system, in particular for carrying out the method according to any one of claims 1 to 5, comprising:

1. A first computing device comprising a memory that stores non-transitory instructions that, when executed by one or more processors of the first computing device, cause the first computing device to: retrieving a digital 3D model of the patient's maxilla and a digital 3D model of the patient's mandible from a second computing device comprising a mass storage device having stored thereon a digital 3D model of the patient's maxilla and a digital 3D model of the patient's mandible; for a plurality of dentition variations, each comprising a combination of the digital 3D model of the maxilla and the digital 3D model of the mandible of the patient, differing from one another in the relative positioning of the maxilla and mandible with respect to one another, in each case combining the digital 3D model of the patient's maxilla with the digital 3D model of the mandible such that the maxilla and mandible rest on top of each other at several contact points without any spatial overlap of any portion of the maxilla and mandible; determining a contact surface between the upper and lower jaws; selecting an optimized dentition variation as a 3D model of the dentition, taking into account the contact surfaces; An automated analysis system comprising a first computing device.

7. The system of claim 6, wherein the non-transient command, when executed by one or more processors of the first computing device, causes the first computing device to select the dentition variation in which the contact surfaces of the upper and lower jaws have a maximum value as the 3D model of the dentition.

8. 8. The system of claim 6 or 7, wherein the non-transient command, when executed by one or more processors of the first computing device, causes the first computing device to take into account different dentition variations in the inclination of the upper jaw relative to the lower jaw.

9. 9. The system of claim 6, wherein the non-transient command, when executed by one or more processors of the first computing device, causes the first computing device to take into account a plurality of dentition variations corresponding to a temporal sequence in chewing movements for selecting the 3D model of the dentition.

10. Use of a 3D model of the dentition selected by the method according to any one of claims 1 to 5 as a basis for the production of a dental prosthesis.

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