Generating prescriptions for aligner treatment with assistive artificial intelligence software

Abstract

The present technology relates to methods and systems for automatically diagnosing and proposing a treatment for an orthodontic condition. More specifically, this technology relates to methods and systems that employ the use of artificial intelligence capabilities to collect information from an orthodontic provider that can be used to generate an aligner treatment plan. In particular, the technology relates to methods and system for identifying a treatment plan for an orthodontic condition in which: treatment question are provided to a user through a user interface to obtain treatment preference information from an orthodontic provider based on orthodontic information regarding a patient's teeth shared from a user; a treatment simulation is created based on the orthodontic information and preferences and is displayed through the user interface; and modifications of the treatment simulation are made through the user interface to create a treatment plan which is sent to the user.

Description

GENERATING PRESCRIPTIONS FOR ALIGNER TREATMENT WITH ASSISTIVE ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE SOFTWARECross-Reference to Related Application

[0001] This application claims benefit and priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 736,653, filed December 20, 2024, entitled “Generating Prescriptions for Aligner Treatment With Assistive Artificial Intelligence Software.” The content of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety

[0002] Field of the Technology

[0003] The present technology relates to methods and systems for automatically proposing a treatment for an orthodontic condition. More specifically, this technology relates to methods and systems that employ the use of artificial intelligence capabilities to collect information from an orthodontic provider that can be used to generate an aligner treatment plan and ease the decision process for providing treatment options to the patient.Background

[0004] Orthodontic aligners are appliances intended to make a series of discrete tooth position corrections aimed at aligning the teeth correctly. Aligners are equivalent to having bracket / wire braces for orthodontic treatment, but they have many advantages. For example, aligners are transparent or semi-transparent, comfortable, and removable for cleaning and while eating.

[0005] Aligners, generally, can be used to alter the position of one or more teeth within a subject’s mouth. Aligners include a plurality of indentions and are configured to fit tightly on the subject’s teeth. Aligners are maintained on the teeth through an interference fit between the aligner and the teeth. Aligners also include some indentations that do not perfectly match the current shape or position of the patient’s teeth. The mismatch between the aligner and the teeth is predetermined so that the aligner applies pressure to specific teeth. In areas where the shape and position of the aligner does not match the current shape or position of the teeth, pressure areas between the aligner and the teeth are created. The aligner creates forces at the pressure areas that will trigger bone remodeling in the maxilla or mandibula, and, over time, teeth will shift position towards the shape and position dictated by the aligner. The specific1WBD (US) 4909-5042-1768 vlforce needed trigger bone remodeling results from a combination of specific pressure areas between that tooth and the aligner. The forces at the pressure areas are substantially greater than the pressure applied to the teeth through the interference fit.

[0006] A treatment plan is developed to show the blueprint plans for moving the teeth into the desired configuration through a series of gradual tooth movements. The treatment plan is a series of steps that are predetermined by the provider and treatment planning specialists to reposition the teeth of the subject into the desired configuration. Each step of the treatment plan corresponds to a specific movement of one or more teeth of the subject by one aligner set or one aligner arch. Each aligner in the system is created to have one or more mismatches between the current or projected configurations of the teeth, so that pressure areas are created between the aligner and the teeth to induce movement of the teeth toward the final tooth position as defined by the aligner.

[0007] Treatment plans are created from computer models and simulations based on information initially provided by the orthodontic provider. To generate a treatment plan, the orthodontic provider will typically provide an intraoral scan and fill out a digital prescription form manually. The digital prescription form includes several options for treatment preselection, treatment preferences, and some comment sections. Once submitted, the information is used to prepare a treatment plan.

[0008] The information provided on the digital prescription forms is used to create the aligner treatment plan. The accuracy of the aligner treatment plan is therefore dependent on the information provided by the orthodontic provider. When the prescription forms are incomplete or lack sufficient detail, the aligner treatment plans are typically rejected by the orthodontic provider. When treatment plans are rejected by the orthodontic provider, additional information needs to be obtained from the orthodontic provider and a new treatment plan generated. This process may require multiple iterations until a treatment plan is satisfactory to the orthodontic provider. This iterative process of producing a treatment plan can add weeks before aligner production begins and therefore treatment is delayed.

[0009] It is desirable to improve, simplify, and automate communication for orthodontic providers when prescriptions are filled out which should streamline the treatment planning process as a result.2WBD (US) 4909-5042-1768 vlSummary

[0010] The present technology can, in some embodiments, mitigate the problems associated with creating a treatment plan by using methods and systems that employ the use of artificial intelligence capabilities to collect information from an orthodontic provider that can be used to generate an aligner treatment plan.

[0011] In an aspect of the present technology, a method of identifying a treatment plan for an orthodontic condition in a patient, includes providing a user interface to a user of a computer or mobile device. The method includes receiving orthodontic information regarding the patient’s teeth from the user of the computer or mobile device. The method further includes providing treatment questions to the user through the user interface to obtain treatment preference information from the orthodontic provider. The treatment questions are generated using artificial intelligence software based on the orthodontic information provided by the user through the user interface.

[0012] The method further includes creating a treatment simulation based on the orthodontic information and the treatment preference information received from the user. The treatment simulation can be displayed to the user through the user interface to allow the user to review the treatment simulation. The treatment simulation can be modified by the user through the user interface.

[0013] The method further includes creating a treatment plan based on the collected orthodontic information, the treatment preference information, and any modifications provided by the user. After the treatment plan is created, the treatment plan is sent to the user for final approval by the orthodontic provider.

[0014] In an aspect of the present technology, receiving modification of the treatment simulation includes providing one or more treatment refinement questions to the user through the user interface, wherein the treatment refinement questions are determined from treatment features associated with the preview of the treatment simulation. The method also includes receiving treatment modification information from the user through the user interface. The user interface allows the user to provide treatment modification information by annotating or altering the treatment simulation. In an aspect of the present technology, the treatment plan is created based on the collected orthodontic information, the treatment preference information, and any treatment modification information provided by the user.3WBD (US) 4909-5042-1768 vl

[0015] In an aspect of the present technology, the treatment preference information and / or treatment modification information is used to refine and / or eliminate potential treatment plans.

[0016] In an aspect of the present technology, the user interface includes a chatbot interface. The method further includes the exchange of text messages, generated from one side using artificial intelligence to the user and receiving text messages from the user through the chatbot to collect orthodontic information and treatment preference information.

[0017] In an aspect of the present technology, the user interface is a graphical user interface that comprises a 3D modeling graphic interface. The method further comprises displaying a 3D model of the patient’s teeth based on the intraoral scans provided by the orthodontic provider. The method further comprises allowing the user to select a tooth on the 3D model and providing treatment preference information regarding the selected tooth through the user interface.

[0018] In an aspect of the present technology, the treatment simulation and / or the treatment plan is created using artificial intelligence to analyze default clinical protocols, literature knowledge, treatment files, and completed cases to generate the treatment simulation and / or treatment plan.

[0019] In an aspect of the present technology, the method further includes receiving approval of the treatment plan from the user; and making a plurality of aligners that can be used by the user to implement the treatment plan in the patient.

[0020] In an aspect of the present technology, a system is configured to perform a method of identifying a treatment plan for an orthodontic condition in a patient, as described herein. The system includes a memory; a processing device, operatively coupled to the memory; and at least one computer program stored in the memory and configured to perform a method of identifying a treatment plan for an orthodontic condition in a patient.

[0021] In an aspect of the present technology, a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium includes instructions that, when executed by a processing device, cause the processing device to perform a method of identifying a treatment plan for an orthodontic condition in a patient, as described herein.Brief Description of the Drawings

[0022] The technology will be more fully understood from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:4WBD (US) 4909-5042-1768 vl

[0023] FIG. 1 depicts a system according to the present technology;

[0024] FIG. 2 depicts a schematic diagram of the treatment planning software components of the system.

[0025] FIG. 3 depicts a flow chart of a method of identifying a treatment plan for an orthodontic condition in a patient.

[0026] FIG. 4 is a block diagram of an example computing device that can perform one or more of the operations described herein.

[0027] FIGS. 5A-5F shows an example of an orthodontic prescription intake session implemented on the system of the present technology.Detailed Description

[0028] The present technology provides a method of improving the intake of orthodontic information prior to designing an aligner treatment plan. The present technology uses artificial intelligence (Al) derived real time conversation to obtain the necessary orthodontic information from the user of the system. The use of artificial intelligence allows for automated step-by- step guidance to help the user provide the necessary treatment information to generate an acceptable treatment plan.

[0029] Aligners can be used to correct undesirable orthodontic conditions. As used herein an “orthodontic condition” is an arrangement of a patient's teeth that is undesirable according to applicable orthodontic standards. The arrangement of the patient’s teeth may be undesirable for medical, orthodontic, aesthetic, and other reasons. A common orthodontic condition is a malocclusion. A malocclusion is a misalignment or incorrect relation between the teeth of the two dental arches when they approach each other as the jaws close. Malocclusions can be corrected using a series of aligners according to an aligner treatment plan.

[0030] FIG. 1 depicts a system 100 according to the present technology. System 100 is configured as an aligner treatment planning system. The system 100 receives information from an orthodontic provider, or a person associated with the provider, and generates an aligner treatment plan. The system 100 can include a computer 115 and / or a mobile device 105, a server 110, and a database 120 connected together via a network 130. The mobile device 105 can include a smart phone, a laptop, a PDA, a tablet, and the like. The mobile device 105 can represent one or more mobile devices connected to the server 110, the computer 115, and the database 120 via the network 130. The server 110 can represent one or more servers connected 5WBD (US) 4909-5042-1768 vlto the mobile device 105, the computer 115, and the database 120 via the network 130. The computer 115 can represent one or more computers connected to the mobile device 105, the server 110, and the database 120 via the network 130. The database 120 can represent one or more databases connected to the mobile device 105, the server 110, and the computer 115 via the network 130. The network 130 can represent one or more networks connecting the mobile device 105, the server 110, the computer 115, and the database 120.

[0031] The network 130 can be a public network, such as the Internet, or a private network such as a LAN or WAN network, or any combination thereof and can also include PSTN or ISDN sub-networks. The network 130 can also be wired, such as an Ethernet network, or can be wireless such as a cellular network including EDGE, 3G, 4G and 5G wireless cellular systems. The wireless network can also be Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or any other wireless form of communication that is known.

[0032] The computer 115 and mobile device 105 can include a user interface can be a graphic user interface. The interface can also include other components such as a touchscreen, keyboard and / or mouse, allowing a user to interact with the graphical user interface (GUI) that is used to obtain orthodontic information regarding a patient’s teeth.

[0033] The present technology employs artificial intelligence (Al) to obtain dental prescription information and generate proposed aligner treatment plans. The Al system leverages state-of-the-art methodologies, including transformer-based models such as GPT (Generative Pre-trained Transformers) and similar architectures, to enhance natural language understanding and processing for dental data intake and conversational interactions. These Al algorithms integrate advanced neural network architectures with techniques like fine-tuning on orthodontic- specific datasets, reinforcement learning with human feedback (RLHF), and transfer learning to adapt pre-trained models for domain- specific tasks. The Al system coordinates orthodontic information intake and treatment planning through the application of statistical estimation, optimization techniques, and control theory methodologies. Estimators and estimation methods utilized include, but are not limited to, maximum likelihood estimators, Bayes estimators, method of moments estimators, Cramer-Rao bound, minimum mean squared error (Bayes least squared error), maximum a posteriori, minimum variance unbiased estimator, particle filter, Markov chain Monte Carlo, Kalman filter, Ensemble Kalman filter, and Wiener filter. The optimization techniques employed include both single-variable and multi-variable statistical optimization methods such as Bundle methods, Conjugate gradient method, Ellipsoid6WBD (US) 4909-5042-1768 vlmethod, Frank- Wolfe method, Gradient descent (steepest descent / ascent), Interior point methods, Line search, Nelder-Mead method, Newton's method, Quasi-Newton methods, Simplex method, and Subgradient method. In addition, the Al system incorporates conversational Al capabilities for interactive and contextual intake of dental prescriptions, leveraging natural language generation (NLG) and intent recognition to provide patient-centric recommendations and explanations. The technology emphasizes explainable Al (XAI) to ensure transparency and reliability in orthodontic diagnoses and treatment plans, addressing critical concerns around patient trust and ethical Al deployment. The system is designed for seamless integration with cloud-based platforms and real-time processing of orthodontic data. It adheres to current regulatory standards such as GDPR, HIPAA, and other healthcare compliance frameworks to maintain data privacy and security. These enhancements ensure the Al-driven treatment planning software remains at the forefront of orthodontic innovation while delivering accurate, reliable, and ethically sound solutions.

[0034] Because the systems and methods of the present technology involve certain input provided by users of the invention, the systems and methods are dynamic. As such, the invention provides that algorithms that employ control theory may be employed to solve problems in connection with the orthodontic information intake and the treatment planning steps described herein. Non-limiting examples of such control theory methods include: Adaptive control, Hierarchical control, Intelligent control, Optimal control, Robust control and Stochastic control.

[0035] FIG. 2 depicts a schematic diagram of the treatment planning software components of the system. The software components are used by the system to collect orthodontic information from a user of the system (typically an orthodontic provider) and produce an aligner treatment plan. The system includes a front end which serves as the user interface into the system. The system also includes a back end which includes software and databases used to create an artificial intelligence communication session with the user through the front end. The back end also includes software and databases used to create a treatment plan and to create a visual presentation of the treatment plan. The front end and back end of the system are linked through a server. The server will generally be a web-based server that allows the user to access the front end of the system using an office computer or mobile device through an internet connection.7WBD (US) 4909-5042-1768 vl

[0036] The front end of the system may be embodied as a treatment planning software application that runs on a computer 115 or a mobile device 105 connected to the network 130. In other aspects, the front end of the system may be embodied as a software application that runs on the server 110. In another aspect, the software for the front end of the system can be stored in the database 120. The computer or mobile device can access the software through the network directly or through the server. In some of these aspects, the computer or mobile device can access the software through a web browser, or a dedicated software application, downloaded onto the computer or mobile device which allows the computer or mobile device to access the server or the database.

[0037] The front end of the system is embodied as a user interface (UI) that is presented to the user by the computer or mobile device. The user interface can be a graphical user interface. The front end includes a provider portal, a chatbot and a 3D modeling graphic interface. The provider portal provides entry into the aligner treatment planning system. The provider portal can be password protected to control access to only registered users.

[0038] The front end of the system includes a chatbot. As used herein a chatbot is an application that simulates and processes human conversation (either written or spoken), allowing humans to interact with digital devices as if they were communicating with a real person. The chatbot is programmed to provide real time questions and replies to a user of the system (e.g., an orthodontic provider) to obtain the orthodontic information required to prepare a treatment plan. Chatbots are primarily driven by artificial intelligence, automated rules, natural-language processing (NLP), and machine learning (ML) to present questions to the user that will be used to obtain information needed to prepare an aligner treatment plan.

[0039] While the chatbot described herein typically provides text based questions, it should be understood that the chatbot can provide audio questions and answers in response to text based or audio input from a user of the system. For example, the user can be prompted to dictate information to the system using a microphone coupled to the user’s computer. An application can be used to convert voice to text that can be analyzed by the system. The system may also reply to the user using an Al generated voice.

[0040] The front end of the system also includes a 3D modeling graphic interface. The 3D modeling graphic interface is an application that presents an interactive 3D model of a patient’s teeth on the graphic user interface. The 3D model can be created from information provided by the orthodontic provider. For example, the 3D model can be created based on intraoral scans8WBD (US) 4909-5042-1768 vlmade by the orthodontic provider and uploaded through the user interface. The 3D modeling graphic interface can also provide 3D models of an aligner treatment plan for review by the orthodontic practitioner. Software for providing orthodontic 3D models and orthodontic treatment simulations is described in U.S. Patent No. 10,825,239, “Orthodontic treatment simulation having improved graphics processing for virtual modeling”, which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0041] A feedback application is connected between the front end of the software and the back end of the software. The feedback application provides an interface between the front end components and the back end components. The feedback application receives information from the system user and directs the information to the appropriate applications in the back end of the software. The feedback application also receives information from the back end of the system, in response to the entered information, and provides textual and visual information to the appropriate components of the front end of the system.

[0042] The back end of the software components includes but is not limited to: a database that includes a plurality of treatment knowledge databases, a text-based Al communication application, an Al treatment planning application, web based applications, a 3D treatment planning application, and storage for client information and case files. Each of the software components in the back end can be accessed by the feedback application which interfaces with the front end to provide interactive two-way communication between the system user (working at a computer or mobile device) and the back end software components.

[0043] The treatment knowledge databases can include treatment files, literature knowledge, clinical protocols, and completed cases. Treatment files includes information derived from ongoing and completed patient treatments. Literature knowledge includes information derived from textbooks and scientific literature. Clinical protocols includes common tooth movements that are generally accepted for aligner treatment of orthodontic conditions. Completed cases includes aligner plans created for previous patients. The completed cases accessible by the system can be limited to cases completed by the user’s organization.

[0044] The treatment knowledge databases are used with the Al treatment planning application and 3D treatment planning application to produce an aligner treatment plan based on the user input. The treatment knowledge databases are also used in conjunction with the feedback application to provide audio, visual, or text-based communications with the user through the GUI.9WBD (US) 4909-5042-1768 vl

[0045] The text-based Al application provides the text based interactive session for the user. The text-based Al application uses Al to create realistic real time interactive communication with the user.

[0046] The Al treatment planning application is an application that creates the treatment plan based on the data provided by the user and the knowledge databases. The Al treatment planning application can determine tooth movements and / or rotations to achieve the desired reconfiguration of the patient’s teeth.

[0047] The 3D treatment planning application interacts with the Al treatment planning application to generate 3D graphical models of the treatment plan. The 3D modeling application interacts with the 3D modeling graphic interface to produce a visual representation of the treatment plan and the teeth and gingiva of the patient. The 3D treatment planning application can prepare visual representations of tooth movements during each aligner step of the aligner treatment plan.

[0048] Treatment plans are created as computer models and simulations based on information provided by an orthodontic provider. To generate a treatment plan the orthodontic provider will typically provide, at least, an intraoral scan and fill out a digital prescription form. A typical digital prescription form is exemplified in Tables 1-4. Exemplary responses and explanations are presented in the Tables for illustrative purposes only.

[0049] Table 1 depicts the fields typically used to collect the patient and clinician information. Table 2 depicts fields that collect information that, along with the intraoral scan, is needed to create a treatment plan. All fields in Table 2 are completed by the orthodontic provider, with some fields having options presented for the orthodontic provider to select from.TABLE 110WBD (US) 4909-5042-1768 vlTABLE 2

[0050] Tables 3 and 4 depict optional information that the orthodontic provider can include that will help customize the alignment treatment plan to the specific patient. In Table 3 the occlusion relationship can be entered by the orthodontic provider. Occlusion relationship can be added by the orthodontic provider according to standard classifications. Class I occlusion relationship is when the teeth are properly aligned. Class II occlusion relationship is indicated when the cusp of the upper molars are anterior to the buccal groove (for molars). Class II occlusion relationship is also characterized by an overjet or overbite of the anterior teeth. Class III occlusion relationship is indicated when the cusp of the upper molars are distal to the buccal groove (for molars). Class III occlusion relationship is also characterized by an underbite of the anterior teeth. The upper and lower midline is centered or shifted. The orthodontic provider can enter the amount the midline is shifted in the field.11WBD (US) 4909-5042-1768 vlTABLE 3

[0051] The last part of the dental prescription form (Table 4) relates to modifications of default orthodontic treatment guidelines. The orthodontic provider is presented with a number of potential corrections and procedures that will be automatically set according to orthodontic treatment guidelines (OTG) that are in general use. The orthodontic provider is given the option to add notes to modify the corrections or procedures in this section of the form.12WBD (US) 4909-5042-1768 vlTABLE 4

[0052] An orthodontic provider can fill out the dental prescription form manually by writing the information into boxes provided on a paper form or filing out the form using a computer or mobile device. When using a computer or mobile device, some of the fields, such as the fields indicated in Table 1 and Table 2, can be indicated as required fields. When completing the form the orthodontic provider may not be able to submit the form without information entered in the required fields. Typically, the computer system will only check that information has been entered in these fields without checking accuracy of the data entered in all the required fields. This can lead to forms that are improperly completed, which effects the accuracy of the aligner treatment plan. In some instances, the aligner manufacturer may not be able to generate an13WBD (US) 4909-5042-1768 vlaligner treatment plan if the data is incorrectly added to the dental prescription form, or the data is incomplete. When the orthodontic provider receives the aligner treatment plan, the plan may be rejected and subsequently revised due to missing information or inaccurate interpretation of the information provided. This can delay the start of the treatment for weeks, particularly if numerous iterations of review and changes to the design are required before the final treatment plan is approved.

[0053] The present technology alleviates some of the problems associated with filing out the dental prescription form by providing a real-time interactive intake session, using Al generated communication, that can assist the orthodontic provider, or representative of the orthodontic provider, during the preparation of the dental prescription form. The Al communication application can analyze information as it is provided and ask the provider for treatment preference information and treatment refinement information during the intake session. The Al communication application can predict the potential treatment options, as the information is provided, and dynamically create questions which help refine the aligner treatment plan before the plan is sent to the orthodontic provider for approval.

[0054] FIG. 3 depicts a flow chart of a method of identifying a treatment plan for an orthodontic condition in a patient. In the first step, 310, the user of the system (e.g., an orthodontic provider), starts the dental prescription intake program and initiates an intake session. The process may begin by having the user log-in with predefined credentials on a computer or mobile device. The predefined credentials can be used to identify the user and the clinic that the user is associated with. The dental prescription intake program is associated with the front end of the system described in FIG. 2. Once initiated, the dental intake prescription program can be presented to the user through a user interface on the computer or mobile device.

[0055] After the initial log-in, the user will be asked to provide orthodontic information regarding the patient’s teeth, step 320. Orthodontic information includes one or more scans of the patient’s mouth and optionally a scan of the occlusal surfaces of the teeth. Orthodontic scan information can also include intraoral scans, x-rays (e.g., cephalometric radiographic analysis) and photographs. The orthodontic information will be uploaded by the user and saved in the client information / case files in the backend of the system. The orthodontic scan information can be accessed by the 3D treatment planning application. The 3D treatment planning application can be used to generate a 3D model of the patients’ teeth and send the model to the 3D modeling graphic interface for display to the user. The 3D model of the14WBD (US) 4909-5042-1768 vlpatient’s teeth can be an interactive model that allows the user to annotate the model. The user can annotate the model, for example, by (highlighting sections of the model and / or adding notes to the model, like the direction of a specific movement.

[0056] Other orthodontic information that may be entered includes the information presented in Table 2. This orthodontic information includes, but is not limited to: Pricing plan (e.g., Basic, Standard, Premium),' Duration limit; Arches treated (e.g., Upper, Lower, Both ,' Treatment approach (e.g., Aesthetic or Full Arch Correction),' Static Teeth (list of teeth that cannot move),' Avoid Engagers on Teeth (list of teeth where engagers cannot be placed, e.g., teeth with restorations present),' Tooth Extraction (list teeth that will be extracted, and at what moment of the treatment), ' Leave Open Space (list interproximal spaces where spaces must not be changed),' Trimline (e.g., high flat, low flat, scalloped, etc ,' Movement Rate select different rate or same for each tooth, as well as amount per step. Default movements if left unfilled are e.g., 0.3 mm for translations and 3.0° for rotations),' Wear Schedule (time that each aligner is used, e.g., 1 week, 2 weeks, or 3 weeks), ' IPR Timing (e.g., at beginning of treatment). In some embodiments, additional or fewer parameters or guidelines can be implemented than those described in Tables 1-4.

[0057] Once the initial orthodontic information is gathered, a preliminary analysis can be performed using, for example, the Al treatment planning application. Using one or more artificial intelligence algorithms, such as the algorithms described herein (or combinations thereof), as well as (i) information derived from textbooks and scientific literature; (ii) default clinical protocols; (iii) treatment files; and (iv) results derived from ongoing and completed patient treatments, the application determines one or more treatments for the patient which include potential solutions that can be applied to correct the undesirable orthodontic condition. Associated with the initial treatment plans are potential variables that will be decided by the orthodontic provider based on the providers preferences and knowledge of the specific patient.

[0058] In one aspect of the present technology, a text-based Al communication application works with the Al treatment planning application to generate one or more questions that are presented to the user. The questions are selected based on potential aligner treatment plans and variables associated with the plans. The questions are dynamically generated, based on responses from the user, to obtain information from the user which is used to refine and select an aligner plan that is optimized for the orthodontic provider.15WBD (US) 4909-5042-1768 vl

[0059] In step 330, the text-based Al communication application prepares questions to obtain treatment preference information that will help the Al treatment planning application prepare a customized treatment plan that is optimized to the orthodontic providers preferences. The questions can be selected from common treatment preferences associated with aligner treatment plans. For example, the questions can be created to obtain treatment preference information related to: Anterior Torque Correction; Posterior Torque Correction; Teeth Assigned to Expansion; Class II Corrections; Smile Arc; Occlusion; Curve of Spec (COS); Virtual C-Chain; First Molars; Second & Third Molars; Overjet and Overbite; Mild-Moderate Crowding; Moderate- Severe Crowding; Engager Protocols; Engagers Timing; Engager Size; Anterior Bite Ramps; Posterior Bite Ramps; Cutout Shapes; Missing / Extracted Tooth; Erupting Teeth; Movement Velocity for Mixed Dentition; Engagers for Mixed Dentition; and IPR Maximum.

[0060] The Al communication application can obtain treatment preference information using a series of questions that are dynamically created based on the orthodontic information provided by the user in combination with the preliminary analysis of this information. In one aspect of the present technology, the Al communication application generates a list of treatment preference categories (selected from the list of common treatment preferences) which are customized for potential treatment plans, as determined by the preliminary analysis of the orthodontic information. The categories can be presented as a list of potential treatment preferences in a text-based form (e.g., through the chatbot) or as a table in the GUI that allows the user to enter and revise the information into customized fields.

[0061] In an aspect of the present invention, the Al communication application will generate a series of questions to walk the user through only the information that is necessary to prepare an optimized treatment plan. The series of questions can be generated by performing an analysis of the orthodontic information entered by the user and presenting questions to obtain preference information that is related to typical treatment strategies used to correct the orthodontic conditions. Using Al generated questions, the series of questions can be presented in the form of a conversation between the chatbot and the user. The Al communication application uses the Al treatment planning application to interact with potential treatment plans to dynamically generate questions that will lead to the optimal treatment plan for the user.

[0062] Once the interaction with the user is complete, at step 340, one or more treatment simulations are created based on the orthodontic information and the treatment preference16WBD (US) 4909-5042-1768 vlinformation collected during the interactive session. One or more treatment simulations are created using the knowledge databases. In one aspect of the invention, the Al treatment planning application uses the orthodontic information, the treatment preference information and information obtained from the knowledge databases to generate one or more treatment simulations. The treatment simulation is optimized to the user preferences by incorporating the treatment preference information collected from the user. Methods of generating treatment simulations are described in U.S. Patent No. 10,568,716, “Methods and systems for employing artificial intelligence in automated orthodontic diagnosis and treatment planning”, which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0063] Treatment simulations and treatment plans can be determined using Al treatment planning application. The Al treatment application applies rules based on information in the knowledge databases to prepare a series of proposed teeth movements to achieve a desired configuration of the patient’s teeth. For example, some rules will define which teeth are best to be moved first, in a certain manner, and if multiple teeth can be moved at the same time with any given aligner in a sequence of aligners. The Al treatment planning application will perform assessments of the original teeth positions versus final teeth positions and perform calculations of what movement(s) are logically next in the sequence of aligners based on governing rules and parameters that serve as guidance for achieving optimally arranged teeth.

[0064] In step 350, the user is presented with one or more of the treatment simulations and is given an opportunity to review the simulations. The treatment simulations are presented to the user in a graphical form through the 3D modeling graphic interface as well as through a table displaying the three-dimensional translation and rotation of each tooth for each aligner step. Methods of generating and displaying 3D simulations of a treatment plan are described in U.S. Patent No. 10,825,239, “Orthodontic treatment simulation having improved graphics processing for virtual modeling”, which is incorporated herein by reference. The user will also be presented with a dialog to determine if the treatment simulations are acceptable. If one or more treatment simulations are determined by the user to need refinement, the user can enter treatment modification information. The treatment modification information can include instructions to alter portions of a treatment simulation. The orthodontic provider can enter comments to the chatbot, using common dental jargon, to indicate the changes. The chatbot can relay the comments to the Al treatment planning application and a dialog can be prepared and presented to the user to confirm details regarding the treatment modification information.17WBD (US) 4909-5042-1768 vl

[0065] In one aspect of the present technology, the software can automatically eliminate one or more of a plurality of treatment simulations based on treatment refinement information provided by the user. As discussed above, a plurality of treatment simulations can be determined based on the orthodontic information and the treatment preference information collected during the interactive session. The Al treatment planning application can work with the Al communication application to generate one or more questions that can help to eliminate some of the treatment simulations based on the user’s responses. For example, if one or more treatment simulations require an anterior torque correction on both upper and lower dentition. Some of the treatment plans may be eliminated if the user indicates that torque correction should only be applied to the upper dentition. In this way, by asking one or more treatment refinement questions, one or more simulations can be automatically eliminated without the need to present the simulations to the user.

[0066] In step 360, a treatment plan is created based on the collected orthodontic information, the treatment preference information, and the treatment modification information. The treatment plan can be created using Al analysis of the collected information in combination with the information in the knowledge databases. Methods of generating treatment plans are described in U.S. Patent No. 10,568,716, “Methods and systems for employing artificial intelligence in automated orthodontic diagnosis and treatment planning”, which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0067] The intake and treatment planning process is completed by sending the treatment plan to the orthodontic provider for approval, step 370. The treatment plan may be sent to the user through the graphic user interface of the treatment planning software. In some instances the treatment plan may be sent to the user when the interaction session is completed, so that final approval of the treatment plan can be obtained during a single session.

[0068] Alternatively, the treatment plan may be generated and checked by the aligner manufacturer before being provided to the orthodontic provider. When the treatment plan has been finalized and checked by the aligner manufacturer, a message can be sent to the orthodontic provider. Upon receipt of the message, the orthodontic provider (or a representative for the provider) can log into the treatment planning software to view a 3D simulation of the treatment plan before indicating final approval of the plan. The treatment planning software will allow the user to make additional changes to the treatment plan, if necessary. The orthodontic provider can enter comments, using common dental jargon, to18WBD (US) 4909-5042-1768 vlindicate the changes to the plan. As discussed previously, the chatbot can present questions to the user to obtain any additional information needed to modify the treatment plan.

[0069] It should be understood that multiple iterations of displaying a treatment plan to the orthodontic provider and modifying the plan based on comments received from the provider may be needed to prepare an approved treatment plan. The treatment planning software minimizes the number of iterations required to produce an approved treatment plan, compared to processes that collect information from the orthodontic provider without simultaneous analysis of the information and that don‘t have a holistic view on all variables and settings of the treatment.

[0070] An additional benefit of Al-guided treatment planning lies in its ability to analyze minute details while simultaneously considering interdependent variables across the entire treatment plan. Unlike clinicians, who may focus on perfecting a specific detail — such as refining a single tooth movement across one or more treatment iterations — potentially overlooking its broader impact on the overall plan, Al maintains a holistic perspective. This ensures that while operators concentrate on fine adjustments, the comprehensive treatment objectives remain aligned and optimized.

[0071] Once final approval of the aligner treatment plan is received from the orthodontic provider, the aligner manufacture can begin preparing the aligners. The aligners can be prepared using an aligner manufacturing device which uses thermoforming processes or 3D printing technology. A series of aligners can be made using either process.

[0072] To create an aligner using a 3D printer, digital representations of aligners are created by the treatment plan software. The digital representations of the aligners can be converted into the appropriate file format for the 3D printing process and sent to the 3D printing device.

[0073] To create an aligner using a thermoforming process, a physical model of the user’s teeth can be prepared from a polymeric resin impression of the teeth or a digital scan of the teeth. A thin plastic film is then heated up and placed over the physical model. One or more thin films may be applied to the model to form the aligner. To create a series of aligners using thermoforming, a series of 3D models of the teeth are created of the configuration of the teeth after each aligner treatment. The 3D models of teeth are created based on the digital representations of aligners that are obtained from the treatment plan. The digital representations of the aligners can be converted into the appropriate file format for the 3D19WBD (US) 4909-5042-1768 vlprinting of teeth models and sent to the 3D printing device. Each of the 3D models are used in the thermoforming process to form a series of aligners.

[0074] In either method of producing the aligners, each aligner in the treatment plan is created to have one or more mismatches between the current or projected configurations of the teeth, so that contact surfaces are created between the aligner and the teeth to induce movement of the teeth toward the final tooth position as defined by the aligner.

[0075] FIG. 4 is a block diagram of an example computing device 400 that can perform one or more of the operations described herein, in accordance with some aspects of the present technology. Computing devices, such as device 400, are used in the front-end and back-end of the system described herein. Computing device 400 may be connected to other computing devices in a LAN, an intranet, an extranet, and / or the Internet. The computing device may operate in the capacity of a server machine in client-server network environment or in the capacity of a client in a peer-to-peer network environment. The computing device may be provided by a personal computer (PC), a set-top box (STB), a server, a network router, a switch or bridge, or any machine capable of executing a set of instructions (sequential or otherwise) that specify actions to be taken by that machine. Further, while only a single computing device is illustrated, the term “computing device” shall also be taken to include any collection of computing devices that individually or jointly execute a set (or multiple sets) of instructions to perform the methods discussed herein. For example, the system architecture supports scalability by allowing multiple computing devices to operate concurrently, ensuring redundancy and fault tolerance.

[0076] The example computing device 400 may include a processing device 402, e.g., a general-purpose processor or a programmable logic device (PLD), a main memory 404, e.g., a synchronous dynamic random-access memory (DRAM) or a read-only memory (ROM), a static memory 406, e.g., flash memory, and a data storage device 418, which may communicate with each other via a bus 430.

[0077] Processing device 402 may be provided by one or more general-purpose processing devices such as a microprocessor, central processing unit, or the like. In an illustrative example, processing device 402 may include a complex instruction set computing (CISC) microprocessor, reduced instruction set computing (RISC) microprocessor, very long instruction word (VLIW) microprocessor, or a processor implementing other instruction sets20WBD (US) 4909-5042-1768 vlor processors implementing a combination of instruction sets. Processing device 402 may also include one or more special-purpose processing devices such as an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a field programmable gate array (FPGA), a digital signal processor (DSP), a network processor, or the like. The processing device 402 may be configured to execute the operations described herein, in accordance with one or more aspects of the present disclosure, for performing the operations and steps discussed herein.

[0078] Computing device 400 may further include a network interface device 408 which may communicate with a network 420. The computing device 400 also may include a video display unit 410, e.g., a liquid crystal display (LCD) or a cathode ray tube (CRT), an alphanumeric input device 412, e.g., a keyboard, a cursor control device 414, e.g., a mouse, and an acoustic signal generation device 416, e.g., a speaker. In one embodiment, video display unit 410, alphanumeric input device 412, and cursor control device 414 may be combined into a single component or device, e.g., an LCD touch screen.

[0079] Data storage device 418 may include a computer-readable storage medium 428 on which may be stored one or more sets of instructions 425 that may include instructions for a network forwarder system 440 for carrying out the operations described herein, in accordance with one or more aspects of the present disclosure. Instructions 425 may also reside, completely or at least partially, within main memory 404 and / or within processing device 402 during execution thereof by computing device 400, main memory 404 and processing device 402 also constituting computer-readable media. The instructions 425 may further be transmitted or received over a network 420 via network interface device 408.

[0080] While computer-readable storage medium 428 is shown in an illustrative example to be a single medium, the term “computer-readable storage medium” should be taken to include a single medium or multiple media, e.g., a centralized or distributed database and / or associated caches and servers, that store the one or more sets of instructions. The term “computer-readable storage medium” shall also be taken to include any medium that is capable of storing, encoding or carrying a set of instructions for execution by the machine and that cause the machine to perform the methods described herein. The term “computer-readable storage medium” shall accordingly be taken to include, but not be limited to, solid-state memories, optical media, and magnetic media.21WBD (US) 4909-5042-1768 vlEXAMPLESExample 1

[0081] FIGS. 5A-5F shows an example of an orthodontic prescription intake session implemented on the system of the present technology. The FIGS. 5A-5F show the interaction between the front end of the system and the back end of the system during the intake process. In FIG. 5A, the prescription intake session begins when the orthodontic provider opens the treatment planning software and logs in with the providers account information. The orthodontic provider initiates the session by entering “Generate New Patient Case”. Entering this information signals the system to initiate the intake process. It should be understood that the specific wording is not important with the use of the Al interactive system of the present technology. The Al Communication Application is configured to interpret the entries of the user as entered without requiring any specific format. The Al Communication Application, however, may request clarification when an input is not clear and could be interpreted in multiple ways by the Al. Upon receiving the request to generate a new patient case the information is transferred to the back end of the system where two things can happen: 1) the command prompt is translated into an application action to create a new patient case in the database and open it for further modifications. 2) the Al Communication Application creates a prompt to enter the treatment approach as determined from the default Orthodontic Treatment Guidelines (“OTG”, from the Knowledge Databases). The chatbot in the front end of the system generates the question “Treatment approach?” (options = Aesthetic or Full Arch Correction)”. The intake session goes into standby waiting for the orthodontic provider’s answer. At each step of the process of collecting information, once the user’s input is successfully understood by the Al and falls within one of the options, the Al calls the correct function to store the variable in the memory.

[0082] FIG. 5B displays the interaction between the orthodontic provider and the system after the interaction shown in FIG. 5 A. In FIG. 5B, the orthodontic provider enters the answer of “Aesthetic” in response to the chatbot prompt. The provider’s answer is transmitted to the back end where the next option for an aesthetic treatment is determined from the default OTG. In this specific situation, the prompt “Social 6 or other” is generated and displayed by the chatbot. The intake session goes into standby waiting for the orthodontic provider’s answer.22WBD (US) 4909-5042-1768 vl

[0083] FIG. 5C displays the interaction between the orthodontic provider and the system after the interaction shown in FIG. 5B. In FIG. 5C, the orthodontic provider enters the answer of “Social 6” in response to the chatbot prompt. The provider’s answer is transmitted to the back end where the next option for a Social 6 treatment is determined from the default OTG. In this specific situation, the prompt “Describe the treatment required (e.g., Close space between X teeth, correct crowding, etc.)” is generated and displayed by the chatbot. The specific question can be customized by an initial analysis of the intraoral scan and any other information that has been entered about the patient’s teeth. The intraoral scan and other information can be analyzed, for example, by the Al treatment planning application to determine potential treatments based on information in the Knowledge Databases on similar patient cases. The intake session goes into standby waiting for the orthodontic provider’s answer.

[0084] FIG. 5D displays the interaction between the orthodontic provider and the system after the interaction shown in FIG. 5C. In FIG. 5D, the orthodontic provider enters the answer of “Close space between tooth 8 and 9” in response to the chatbot prompt. The provider’s answer is transmitted to the back end where the request is analyzed. In this specific situation, the Al treatment planning application determines from OTG that there is a “standard” treatment which uses a 2-week wear schedule, regular tooth movement speed, etc. The system, however, understands that non-standard treatments may be desired. The prompt “For space closure, would you like to follow the standard treatment protocol” is generated and displayed by the chatbot. The intake session goes into standby waiting for the orthodontic provider’s answer.

[0085] FIG. 5E displays the interaction between the orthodontic provider and the system after the interaction shown in FIG. 5D. In FIG. 5E, the orthodontic provider enters the answer of “Yes” in response to the chatbot prompt requesting confirmation of standard treatment. The provider’s answer is transmitted to the back end where the request is analyzed. In this specific situation, the Al treatment planning application determines from OTG that the “standard” treatment should be applied and that no further input form the orthodontic provider is required. The Al treatment planning application generates a treatment simulation and interacts with the 3D treatment planning application of the system to generate a visual representation of the alignment treatment simulation. The system sends the visual representation of the treatment simulation to the front end where it is displayed to the orthodontic provider through the 3D modeling interface. In addition to displaying the proposed treatment simulation, the prompt ““Please view the proposed visual treatment plan. Do you agree with this?”” is generated and23WBD (US) 4909-5042-1768 vldisplayed by the chatbot. The intake session goes into standby waiting for the orthodontic provider’s answer.

[0086] FIG. 5F displays the final interaction between the orthodontic provider and the system after the interaction shown in FIG. 5E. In FIG. 5F, the orthodontic provider enters the answer of “Yes” in response to the chatbot prompt requesting approval of the generated treatment simulation. The provider’s answer is transmitted to the back end where the request is analyzed. Approval of the treatment simulation means that the intake session can be concluded. The prompt “Please attach all patient records and biographical information here” is generated and displayed by the chatbot. The intake session terminates after the patient records and biographical information is added. The approved aligner treatment plan is then sent to the manufacturing facility to generate the aligners.Interactive Examples

[0087] Examples 2-4 are examples of an interaction between an orthodontic provider and the treatment planning software that includes a user interface. The user can also interact with the system through inputs, like mouse, keyboard or touch screen, audio input / output. The user interface provides a chatbot [Bot] and a 3D modeling graphic interface to an orthodontic provider to collect information regarding the orthodontic condition of the patient. This example highlights the use of these tools to plan an orthodontic treatment effectively and efficiently. Additionally, the user interface can allow the user to direct the software to a specific tooth or region of interest where an intervention should be applied or not applied. For example, an interaction could be something like “Make sure to not move the molar that I selected throughout the whole treatment, because the patient has an implant there.” The graphic interface can also provide to the user direct access to modifications in the treatment on screen.Example 2

[0088] In this example, a Provider is planning treatment for a patient with moderate crowding in the lower teeth and an overjet in the upper front teeth. The patient has expressed a preference for clear aligners if possible.Mockup Conversation[Bot] Good morning. Let's begin by uploading the latest intraoral scans for our patient.[Provider] (Uploads three intraoral scans through the interface: upper arch, lower arch, and occlusal bite)24WBD (US) 4909-5042-1768 vl[Bot] Scans uploaded successfullyScans are now being processed...The quality of the scans you provided is good.Teeth are now successfully segmented and ready to plan a treatment.[Bot] Let’s start to identify if any crowding is present. Please use the CAD interface to highlight any areas where crowding is severe.[Provider]: (Uses the CAD interface to highlight crowding in the lower anterior region)[Bot]: Crowding noted in the lower anterior region, from canine 33 to incisor 42. By measuring the distances between these five teeth, I can confirm this crowding is present and significant. Given the patient's preference for clear aligners, shall we assess the feasibility of aligners for this case?[Provider]: “Yes, let's do that.”[Bot]: I suggest to now to examine the upper to lower incisor relationship to see if any over jet is present.[Provider]: (Looking at the graphical representation of the patient’s dentition, selects and rotates the 3D model of the upper front teeth.) “I see there are a few millimeters of overjet that are concerning me. This one of the main reason the patient seeks treatment as well, and we should focus on this.”[Bot]: The overjet is quite pronounced, it was estimated from the scan you provided of the occlusal bite to be about 2.8 mm. Considering this, would you like to consider any adjunctive procedures like IPR (Interproximal Reduction) or engager placement to manage the overjet effectively with aligners?[Provider]: “Let’s plan for a light IPR between the upper front teeth. Add that to the treatment plan.”[Bot]: IPR between the upper front teeth will be noted. Do you foresee any need for extractions to alleviate the crowding in the lower teeth ?[Provider]: “No extractions. Let’s use expansion and IPR in the lower arch as well.”25WBD (US) 4909-5042-1768 vl[Bot] : Expansion and IPR in the lower arch have been added. You can see the location and amount of planned IPR directly on screen. Would you like to review the treatment simulation now or explore further modifications ?[Provider]: “Let’s review the simulation of the whole treatment.”[Bot]: (Generates and displays a treatment simulation showing the planned tooth movements, IPR locations, and expected results with aligners for each aligner step chronologically.)[Provider]: (Observes the simulation and highlights canine #23 in the CAD interface on specific teeth that might need more precise movement.) “Add optimized engagers on this tooth for better extrusion.”[Bot]: Engager for tooth #23 have been planned, you can see it now appearing on screen. Lastly, how often would you like to schedule follow-ups to monitor progress?[Provider]: “Let’s schedule monthly follow-ups initially. We can adjust later based on the patient's response to the treatment.”[Bot]: Monthly follow-ups scheduled. All details are now compiled. Would you like me to send the treatment plan summary to your email for final review?[Provider]: “Yes, please send it over.”[Bot]: The treatment plan summary has been updated in your DoctorPortal and sent to you per email. Anything else you would like to add or modify today ?[Provider]: “The simulated treatment plan I see is good to go. I approve it, no more refining of details is needed. Please go ahead and send the request to produce the necessary aligners as soon as possible.”Summary Table:26WBD (US) 4909-5042-1768 vlExample 3

[0089] In Example 3 A Provider” is planning treatment for a patient with a Class I malocclusion, featuring general alignment issues and a specific concern regarding an anterior open bite.Mockup Conversation[Bot] Good morning. Let's begin by uploading the latest intraoral scans for our patient.[Provider ] (Uploads two intraoral scans (upper and lower arch) through the interface.)[Provider] “The patient has a Class I malocclusion, featuring general alignment issues and an anterior open bite.”[Bot] Scans uploaded successfully.The quality of the scans you provided is good.Teeth are now successfully segmented and ready to plan a treatment.[Bot] '.Let's start by confirming the malocclusion type and any significant occlusal issues. You mentioned Class I malocclusion; do we have an open bite present? 1: Yes 2: No[Provider]: 1[Bot]: Noted, there's an anterior open bite. I cannot confirm it or measure the amount of it in the software, since l am missing a scan of the bite occlusion. Could you describe or quantify the extent of the open bite? Please specify in millimeters if possible.[Provider]: “The open bite is approximately 3 mm at the front.”[Bot]: Thank you for specifying. I will adjust in the treatment the position of the lower jaw relative to the upper, to show an open bite of 3 mm like you described. With a 3 mm open bite,27WBD (US) 4909-5042-1768 vllet's consider the general alignment needs. Please select which type of crowding or spacing is observed, along with its severity.1: Mild crowding2: Moderate crowding3: Severe crowding4: Mild spacing5: Moderate spacing6: Severe spacing7: None[Provider]: 2[Bot]: Moderate crowding identified. Given these issues, what would be your preferred approach to address both the open bite and the crowding simultaneously ? You can suggest specific treatments or request a list of options.[Provider]: “Please list the options available.”[Bot]: For managing the open bite along with moderate crowding, we have several approaches:1: Orthodontic intrusion of the anterior teeth2: Use of clear aligners with posterior bite ramps3: Orthodontic extrusion of posterior teeth4: Surgical options[Provider]: 2[Bot]: Clear aligners with bite ramps chosen. Do you see any need for additional appliances or adjustments to enhance the effectiveness of the aligners, such as elastics or IPR?[Provider]: “Let's plan for minimal IPR between the crowded anterior teeth and use elastics to support bite correction.”[Bot]: Understood. I'll note the use of minimal IPR of maximum 0.2 mm and elastics. Would you like to review the treatment simulation now or proceed to finalize the treatment parameters first?1: Review simulation now2: Finalize treatment parameters28WBD (US) 4909-5042-1768 vl[Provider]: 1[Bot]: (Generates and displays the treatment simulation, step by step, including clear aligners with posterior bite ramps clearly visible, IPR of maximum 0.2 mm in the selected region, and the placement for elastics at specific treatment steps.)[Provider]: “The simulated treatment plan I see is good to go. I approve it, no more refining of details is needed. Please go ahead and send the request to produce the necessary aligners as soon as possible.”Summary Table:Example 4

[0090] Another example of an interaction between the orthodontic provider and the treatment planning software is presented as Example 4.Mockup ConversationOrthodontic provider opens case submission record.[Provider]: "Start New Patient Case"[Bot]: " Please confirm or edit Clinician Information. "• Clinician Name: Dr. Jane Doe• Clinician Reference Number: 1234529WBD (US) 4909-5042-1768 vl[Provider]: "Confirm."[Bot]: "Please enter and confirm Patient Information. "• Patient Name: John Smith• Patient Reference Number: 67890• Patient’s Gender: Male• Patient’s Date of Birth: 2005-06-15[Provider]: "Confirm."[Bot]: " Please select the Pricing Plan. "• Options: 1 Basic, 2 Standard, 3 Premium[Provider]: "2."[Bot]: "Duration limit is set to 12 months based on the selected Pricing Plan. Would you like to proceed?"[Provider]: "Yes."[Bot]: "Please select the Arches to be treated. "• Options: Only upper, Only lower, Both[Provider]: "Both."[Bot]: "Please specify the Treatment Approach. "• Options: Aesthetic, Full Arch Correction[Provider]: "Full Arch Correction."[Bot]: "Please list any Static Teeth (e.g., pontics, implants). "[Provider]: "No static teeth."[Bot]: "Please list any teeth where Engagers should be avoided. "[Provider]: "Avoid Engagers on teeth #7 and #10."[Bot]: "Noted. No engagers for the two upper lateral incisors. Any Tooth Extractions required?"[Provider]: "Yes, tooth 4 will be extracted before treatment begins."30WBD (US) 4909-5042-1768 vl[Bot]: "Ok, tooth 4 is removed from the dentition. Only gingival tissue will be considered to be present in the location of tooth 4. A virtual pontic will be placed instead of the missing tooth, to ensure mechanical stability in the aligners. Would you like to leave any Open Spaces?"[Provider]: "Yes, leave untouched the space that is already present between teeth #20 and #21."[Bot]: "Please select the Trimline. "• Options: High flat, Low flat, Scalloped[Provider]: "Scalloped."[Bot]: "Please set the Movement Rate per step. "• Options: 0.3 mm for translations, 3.0° for rotations, or customized per tooth[Provider]: "0.3 mm for translations, 3.0° for rotations."[Bot]: "Select the Wear Schedule. "• Options: 1 week, 2 weeks, 3 weeks[Provider]: "2 weeks."[Bot]: "Would you like to specify IPR Timing?"[Provider]: "Yes, perform IPR at the beginning of treatment."[Bot]: "Please review Occlusion Relationship parameters. "• Upper Midline: Centered• Lower Midline: Centered• Left Canine Relationship: Class I• Right Canine Relationship: Class II• Left Molar Relationship: Class I• Right Molar Relationship: Class III[Provider]: "Adjust Right Canine Relationship to Class I."[Bot]: "Done. Would you like to apply Default Orthodontic Treatment Guidelines or customize them ? "31WBD (US) 4909-5042-1768 vl[Provider]: "Apply defaults except for the following:"• Posterior Torque Correction: Minimal change, only to improve occlusion.• Engager Protocols: Use standard engager placement rules, but add horizontal engagers on all first fully erupted upper teeth.• Overjet and Overbite: Set to ideal overjet with no anterior contacts.• Mild-Moderate Crowding: Expand premolar regions, place IPR as needed, and apply anterior protrusion.[Bot]: " Your customizations have been applied successfully. Please review the proposed visual treatment plan featuring your last comments."[Provider]: "Approve."[Bot]: "Please input directly in the fields or attach all patient records and biographical information missing to finalize the case submission. "[Provider]: "Uploading records now. I will let you find the missing information in there."[Bot] : "I found all missing necessary information. Case submission is complete. You will be notified once the final treatment plan draft is ready for review. "Treatment plan draft is sent to Provider[Provider]: “The simulated treatment plan I see is good to go. I approve it, no more refining of details is needed. Please go ahead and send the request to produce the necessary aligners as soon as possible.”

[0091] In Example 4, the user of the system (e.g., the orthodontic provider) is guided through each step of the intake process by the Chatbot. Each prompt provided by the Chatbot is selected to guide the orthodontic provider through a prescription intake form (e.g., the forms exemplified in Tables 1-4). The Al generated Chatbot dialog ensures that all necessary information is collected before the treatment plan is finalized.Example 5

[0092] Another example of an interaction between the orthodontic provider and the treatment planning software is presented as Example 5.Mockup ConversationOrthodontic provider opens case submission record.32WBD (US) 4909-5042-1768 vl[Provider]: "Start New Patient Case"[Bot]: " Please confirm or edit Clinician Information."• Clinician Name: Dr. Alex Johnson• Clinician Reference Number: 67890[Provider]: "Confirm."[Bot]: " Please enter Patient Information."• Patient Name: Emily Davis• Patient Reference Number: 12345• Patient’s Gender: Female• Patient’s Date of Birth: 2010-03-22[Provider]: "Confirm."[Bot]: " Please select the Pricing Plan."• Options: 1 Basic, 2 Standard, 3 Premium[Provider]: "Premium."[Bot]: " Duration limit is set to 18 months based on the selected Pricing Plan. Would you like to proceed?"[Provider]: "Yes."[Bot]: " Please select the Arches to be treated. "• Options: Only upper, Only lower, Both[Provider]: "Only upper."[Bot]: " Please specify the Treatment Approach."• Options: Aesthetic, Full Arch Correction[Provider]: "Aesthetic."[Bot]: " Please list any Static Teeth (e.g., pontics, implants)."[Provider]: "Static tooth 6 has an implant."[Bot]: " Please list any teeth where Engagers should be avoided. "33WBD (US) 4909-5042-1768 vl[Provider]: "Avoid Engagers on teeth 11 and 12."[Bot]: "Any Tooth Extractions required?"[Provider]: "No extractions required."[Bot]: " Would you like to leave any Open Spaces?"[Provider]: "Yes, leave space between teeth 22 and 23."[Bot]: " Please select the Trimline. "• Options: High flat, Low flat, Scalloped[Provider]: "High flat."[Bot]: " Please set the Movement Rate per step. "• Options: 0.3 mm for translations, 3.0° for rotations, or customized per tooth[Provider]: "Customized: 0.2 mm for incisors, default for the rest."[Bot]: " Select the Wear Schedule. "• Options: 1 week, 2 weeks, 3 weeks[Provider]: "1 week."[Bot]: " Would you like to specify IPR Amount and Timing?"[Provider]: "No IPR needed."[Bot]: " Please review Occlusion Relationship parameters. "• Upper Midline: Shifted left by 1.0 mm• Lower Midline: Centered• Left Canine Relationship: Class I• Right Canine Relationship: Class I• Left Molar Relationship: Class II• Right Molar Relationship: Class I[Provider]: "Adjust Left Molar Relationship to Class I."[Bot]: " Done. Would you like to apply Default Orthodontic Treatment Guidelines or customize them!"34WBD (US) 4909-5042-1768 vl[Provider]: "Customize the following:"• Anterior Torque Correction: Correct only upper dentition.• Teeth Assigned to Expansion: Expand canines to first molars, no expansion for 2nd & 3rd molars.• Engagers Timing: Place at step 3 and remove maximum 10 steps later.• First Molars: Improve only if occlusion is significantly compromised.• Overjet and Overbite: Maintain current overjet and overbite, no changes needed.[Bot]: " Your customizations have been applied and you can now see them on screen. Please review the proposed visual treatment plan. "[Provider]: "Approve after slowing down the rate of canine rotation to 1 degree per aligner step."[Bot]: "Rate of canine rotations now set to 1 degree per aligner. This results in a slower treatment, requiring 4 extra aligners, for a total of 23 aligner / treatment steps instead of 19. Let me know if you’d like to refine this further or undo this last change. Please attach all patient records and biographical information to finalize the case submission. "[Provider]: "Uploading records now."[Bot]: " Case submission is complete. You will be notified once the treatment plan draft is ready for a final review."Treatment plan draft sent to Provider[Provider]: “The simulated treatment plan I see is good to go. I approve it, no more refining of details is needed. Please go ahead and send the request to produce the necessary aligners as soon as possible.”

[0093] In Example 5, the user of the system (e.g., the orthodontic provider) is guided through each step of the intake process by the Chatbot. Each prompt provided by the Chatbot is selected to guide the orthodontic provider through a prescription intake form (e.g., the forms exemplified in Tables 1-4). The Al generated Chatbot dialog ensures that all necessary information is collected and the customizations are reviewed before the treatment plan is finalized.35WBD (US) 4909-5042-1768 vl

[0094] Specific embodiments and methods of collecting dental prescription information and creating a treatment plan have been disclosed. It should be apparent, however, to those skilled in the art that many more modifications besides those already described are possible without departing from the inventive concepts herein. The inventive subject matter, therefore, is not to be restricted except in the spirit of the disclosure. Moreover, in interpreting the disclosure, all terms should be interpreted in the broadest possible manner consistent with the context. In particular, the terms “comprises” and “comprising” should be interpreted as referring to elements, components, or steps in a non-exclusive manner, indicating that the referenced elements, components, or steps may be present, or utilized, or combined with other elements, components, or steps that are not expressly referenced.36WBD (US) 4909-5042-1768 vl

Claims

CLAIMSWhat is claimed is:

1. A method of identifying a treatment plan for an orthodontic condition in a patient, comprising: providing a user interface to a user of a computer or mobile device; receiving and sharing orthodontic information regarding the patient’s teeth from the user of the computer or mobile device; providing treatment questions to the user through the user interface to obtain treatment preference information from the orthodontic provider, wherein the treatment questions are generated based on the orthodontic information provided by the user through the user interface; creating a treatment simulation based on the orthodontic information and the treatment preference information received from the user; displaying a treatment simulation through the user interface to allow the user to review the treatment simulation; receiving modifications of the treatment simulations from the user through the user interface; creating a treatment plan based on the collected orthodontic information, the treatment preference information, and any modifications provided by the user; and sending the treatment plan to the user.

2. The method of claim 1, wherein receiving modification of the treatment simulation comprises: providing one or more treatment refinement questions to the user through the user interface, wherein the treatment refinement questions are determined from treatment features associated with the preview of the treatment simulation; receiving treatment modification information from the user, wherein the user interface allows the user to provide treatment modification information by annotating or altering the treatment simulation; and37WBD (US) 4909-5042-1768 vlcreating the treatment plan based on the collected orthodontic information, the treatment preference information, and any treatment modification information provided by the user.

3. The method of claim 1 or 2, wherein the treatment preference information and / or treatment modification information is used to refine and / or eliminate potential treatment plans.

4. The method of any one of claims 1-3, wherein the user interface comprises a chatbot interface, wherein the method further comprises sending text messages generated using artificial intelligence to the user and receiving text messages from the user through the chatbot to collect orthodontic information and treatment preference information.

5. The method of any one of claims 1-4, wherein the user interface comprises a 3D modeling graphic interface, wherein the method further comprises displaying a 3D model of the patient’s teeth based on the intraoral scans provided by the orthodontic provider.

6. The method of claim 5, wherein user selects a tooth on the 3D model and provides treatment preference information regarding the selected tooth through the user interface.

7. The method of any one of claims 1-6, wherein creating the treatment simulation and / or the treatment plan comprises using artificial intelligence to analyze default clinical protocols, literature knowledge, treatment files, and completed cases while the artificial intelligence selects from one or multiple of the mentioned data sources and generate the treatment simulation and / or the treatment plan.

8. The method of any one of claims 1-7, further comprising: receiving approval of the treatment plan from the user; and making a plurality of aligners that can be used by the user to implement the treatment plan in the patient.

9. A system comprising: a memory; and a processing device, operatively coupled to the memory; and at least one computer program stored in the memory and configured to:38WBD (US) 4909-5042-1768 vlprovide a user interface to a user of a computer or mobile device; receive orthodontic information regarding the patient’s teeth from the user of the computer or mobile device; provide treatment questions to the user through the user interface to obtain treatment preference information from the orthodontic provider, wherein the treatment questions are generated based on the orthodontic information provided by the user through the user interface; create a treatment simulation based on the orthodontic information and the treatment preference information received from the user; display a treatment simulation through the user interface to allow the user to review the treatment simulation; receive modifications of the treatment simulations from the user through the user interface; create a treatment plan based on the collected orthodontic information, the treatment preference information, and any additional details or modifications provided by the user; and send the treatment plan to the user.

10. The system of claim 9, the computer program is further configured to: provide one or more treatment refinement questions to the user through the user interface, wherein the treatment refinement questions are determined from treatment features associated with the preview of the treatment simulation; receive treatment modification information from the user, wherein the user interface allows the user to provide treatment modification information by annotating or altering the treatment simulation; and create the treatment plan based on the collected orthodontic information, the treatment preference information, and any treatment modification information provided by the user.

11. The system of claim 9 or 10, wherein the treatment preference information and / or treatment modification information is used to refine and / or eliminate potential treatment plans.39WBD (US) 4909-5042-1768 vl12. The system of any one of claims 9-11, wherein the user interface comprises a chatbot interface, wherein the computer program is further configured to send text messages generated using artificial intelligence to the user and receive text messages from the user through the chatbot to collect orthodontic information and treatment preference information.

13. The system of any one of claims 9-12, wherein the user interface comprises a 3D modeling graphic interface, wherein the computer program is further configured to display a 3D model of the patient’s teeth based on the intraoral scans provided by the orthodontic provider.

14. The system of claim 13, wherein the instructions are further configured to allow the user to select a tooth on the 3D model and provide treatment preference information regarding the selected tooth through the user interface.

15. The system of any one of claims 9-14, wherein creating the treatment simulation and / or the treatment plan comprises using artificial intelligence to analyze default clinical protocols, literature knowledge, treatment files, and completed cases to while the artificial intelligence selects from one or multiple of the mentioned data sources and generate the treatment simulation and / or the treatment plan.

16. The system of any one of claims 9-15, wherein the computer program is further configured to: receive approval of the treatment plan from the user; and sending digital representations of a series of aligners or dental models in the treatment plan to an aligner manufacturing device.

17. A non-transitory computer-readable storage medium including instructions that, when executed by a processing device, cause the processing device to: provide a user interface to a user of a computer or mobile device; receive orthodontic information regarding the patient’s teeth from the user of the computer or mobile device; provide customized treatment questions to the user through the user interface to obtain treatment preference information from the orthodontic provider, wherein the treatment40WBD (US) 4909-5042-1768 vlquestions are generated based on the orthodontic information provided by the user through the user interface; create a treatment simulation based on the orthodontic information and the treatment preference information received from the user; display a treatment simulation through the user interface to allow the user to review the treatment simulation; receive modifications of the treatment simulations from the user through the user interface; create a treatment plan based on the collected orthodontic information, the treatment preference information, and any modifications provided by the user; and the treatment plan to the user.

18. The medium of claim 17, wherein the instructions are further configured to cause the processing device to: provide one or more treatment refinement questions to the user through the user interface, wherein the treatment refinement questions are determined from treatment features associated with the preview of the treatment simulation; receive treatment modification information from the user, wherein the user interface allows the user to provide treatment modification information by annotating or altering the treatment simulation; and create the treatment plan based on the collected orthodontic information, the treatment preference information, the default clinical protocols, and any treatment modification information provided by the user.

19. The medium of claim 17 or 18, wherein the treatment preference information and / or treatment modification information is used to refine and / or eliminate potential treatment plans.

20. The medium of any one of claims 17-19, wherein the user interface comprises a chatbot interface, wherein the instructions are further configured to cause the chatbot to send text messages generated using artificial intelligence to the user and receiving text messages41WBD (US) 4909-5042-1768 vlfrom the user through the chatbot to collect orthodontic information and treatment preference information.

21. The medium of any one of claims 17-20, wherein the user interface comprises a 3D modeling graphic interface, wherein the instructions are further configured to display a 3D model of the patient’s teeth based on the intraoral scans provided by the orthodontic provider.

22. The medium of claim 21, wherein the instructions are further configured to allow the user to select a tooth on the 3D model and provide treatment preference information regarding the selected tooth through the user interface.

23. The medium of any one of claims 17-22, wherein creating the treatment simulation and / or the treatment plan comprises using artificial intelligence to analyze default clinical protocols, literature knowledge, treatment files, and completed cases to while the artificial intelligence selects from one or multiple of the mentioned data sources and generate the treatment simulation and / or the treatment plan.

24. The medium of any one of claims 17-23, wherein the instructions are further configured to cause the processing device to: receive approval of the treatment plan from the user; and sending digital representations of a series of aligners in the treatment plan to an aligner manufacturing device.42WBD (US) 4909-5042-1768 vl

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