Teeth panoramic view and tool for dental systems

Abstract

The invention discloses to a 2D panoramic chart based on a 2D and / or a 3D scan of the jaw of a patient. The 2D panoramic chart shows the actual scans of the patient thereby facilitating and personalizing the view of the periodontal chart. Additionally, relevant medical data is superimposed with the 2D scans in the 2D panoramic chart. The invention further discloses methods for generating the 2D panoramic chart and means and methods for adding relevant medical data.

Description

[0001] TEETH PANORAMIC VIEW AND TOOL FOR DENTAL SYSTEMS

[0002] RELATED APPLICATION / S

[0003] This application claims the benefit of priority of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 759,990 filed on February 18, 2025, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

[0004] FIELD AND BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0005] The present invention, in some embodiments thereof, relates to a teeth panoramic view and, more particularly, but not exclusively, to a systems and methods for providing a teeth panoramic view and updating / presenting data therein.

[0006] In many dental clinics today, 3D models of the teeth are used for many applications, from modeling for a crown to orthodontics. These models are an accurate digitized representation of the patient teeth. On the other hand, dental caregivers use forms to document clinical conditions of their patients. These forms have a tabulated stylized representation of the human teeth which allows the dental caregivers to easily mark the location of the problematic areas.

[0007] Currently, there is no suitable representation of the 3D information combined with clinical information in a 2D view.

[0008] Additional background art includes International Patent Application Publication No. WO2019207588A2 disclosing an intra-oral optical scanning method for intra-oral optical scanning including projecting a pattern, the pattern including at least a first area illuminated by a first color of light and a second area illuminated by a second color of light and at least one non-illuminated area onto an intra-oral feature, making a first image of the first area, the second area and the nonilluminated area differentiating between the first color of light and the second color of light in the first image of the projected pattern, and determining from the image of the non-illuminated area at least one of an ambient light level, a level of scattered light, a level of light absorption and a level of light reflected from at least one of the first area and the second area.

[0009] International Patent Application Publication No. WO2021224929 Al disclosing a dental addon for an electronic communication device having a screen and an imager, the add-on including: a body comprising: a distal portion sized and shaped to be at least partially inserted into a human mouth within, in one or more dimension, one or both dental arches; and an optical path extending from an optical element of the electronic communication device, through the body to the distal portion and configured to adapt a FOV of the optical element for dental imaging; a connector for connection of the add-on body to the electronic communication device.International Patent Application Publication No. W02020144692 Al disclosing a method for automatically entering content into a periodontal chart. Such methods include, for example, providing an Intra Oral Scanner (IOS) with an elongate probe extending therefrom, contacting a first point inside an oral cavity with the probe while scanning the cavity with the IOS, determining a position of the first point based on the scanning to determine a position in space of the elongate probe, calculating content to be entered into a periodontal chart, and entering the content into the periodontal chart.

[0010] SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0011] Following is a non-exclusive list including some examples of embodiments of the invention. The invention also includes embodiments which include fewer than all the features in an example and embodiments using features from multiple examples, also if not expressly listed below.

[0012] Example 1. A periodontal chart, comprising:

[0013] a. at least one 2D panoramic view of a jaw of a patient; said 2D panoramic view being generated from a 2D scan and / or a 3D scan of said jaw of said patient;

[0014] b. at least one medical information, superimposed on said 2D panoramic view.

[0015] Example 2. The periodontal chart according to example 1, wherein a source of said at least one medical information is one or more of: a. an intraoral camera; b. MRI imagery; c. X-ray images; d. IR images; e. US data; f. transillumination data; g. fluorescence data; h. light scattering data; and i. sub-gingival 3D information.

[0016] Example 3. The periodontal chart according to example 1 or example 2, wherein said at least one medical information comprises one or more of pocket depths; bleeding areas; gum recession measurement; cemento-enamel junction (CEJ) locations; clinical attachment loss (CAL) determinations; bone loss and bone supporting level; tooth mobility; furcation involvement; mucogingival line; plaque and calculus; missing teeth; restoration data; interproximal gap, abnormalities; damage to the teeth; cracks in teeth; inflammation and / or swelling; loss of contact points between teeth; teeth color or shade; and decay.

[0017] Example 4. The periodontal chart according to any one of examples 1-3, wherein said periodontal chart further comprises one or more of a tabular view of said teeth, at least one image of said teeth, at least one video of said teeth, at least one 2D format of said teeth and at least one 3D format of said teeth.

[0018] Example 5. The periodontal chart according to any one of examples 1-4, wherein said periodontal chart comprises two 2D panoramic views of said jaw of said patient, selected from the group consisting of: lingual view, occlusal view and facial view, buccal view and labial view.

[0019] Example 6. A scanning system, comprising:a. a body having approximal end, a distal end and a longitudinal axis extending from said proximal end to said distal end;

[0020] b. a handle on said proximal end;

[0021] c. a head on said distal end;

[0022] d. one or more cameras in said body and having a field of view (FOV) perpendicular to said longitudinal axis of said body;

[0023] e. at least one probe connected to said distal end and extending perpendicular to said longitudinal axis and into said FOV.

[0024] Example 7. The scanning system according to example 6, wherein said probe is mounted on a removable adaptor; said adaptor configured to be mounted on said head.

[0025] Example 8. The scanning system according to example 6 or example 7, further comprising one or more light projectors configured for projecting at least one light onto said FOV.

[0026] Example 9. The scanning system according to any one of examples 6-8, further comprising one or more mirrors configured for directing said FOV from said longitudinal axis to said perpendicular to said longitudinal axis;

[0027] Example 10. The scanning system according to any one of examples 6-9, wherein said scanning system comprises a length of from 50mm to 200mm.

[0028] Example 11. The scanning system according to any one of examples 6-10, wherein said scanning system comprises a width of from 5mm to 50mm.

[0029] Example 12. The scanning system according to any one of examples 6-11, wherein said scanning system comprises a height of from 5mm to 50mm.

[0030] Example 13. The scanning system according to any one of examples 6-12, wherein said probe comprises a length of from 10mm to 30mm.

[0031] Example 14. The scanning system according to any one of examples 6-13, wherein said scanning system comprises two cameras.

[0032] Example 15. The scanning system according to any one of examples 6-14, wherein a distance between said two cameras is from 3mm to 12mm.

[0033] Example 16. The scanning system according to any one of examples 6-15, wherein a distance between each of said two cameras and said probe is from about 2mm to 5mm.

[0034] Example 17. The scanning system according to any one of examples 6-16, wherein said one or more light projectors are configured for generating a depth image and / or a full 3D model.

[0035] Example 18. The scanning system according to any one of examples 6-17, wherein a distance between said one or more light projectors and said one or more cameras is from 3mm to 20mm.Example 19. The scanning system according to any one of examples 6-18, wherein said one or more projectors are located at a place having an equal distance from each camera from said two cameras.

[0036] Example 20. The scanning system according to any one of examples 6-19, wherein a combination of said distance between said two cameras, said distance between said two cameras and said probe and said length of said probe, provide an optimal configuration to perform 2D / 3D measurements.

[0037] Example 21. A method of generating a 2D panoramic chart, comprising:

[0038] a. generating a 3D model of said teeth, comprising:

[0039] i. generating and / or collecting a 3D model of said teeth;

[0040] ii. generating and / or collecting 2D color images;

[0041] iii. generating and / or collecting additional data;

[0042] iv. merging all data from (ii) and (iii) into said 3D model;

[0043] b. transforming the 3D model into a 2D panoramic view, comprising:

[0044] v. analyzing 3D model and / or 2D model data from an acquired 3D model;

[0045] vi. generating a basic 2D panoramic view from said 3D model; said generating comprises calculating a transformation from said 3D model to said basic 2D panoramic view; said calculating a transformation comprises:

[0046] A. performing teeth segmentation;

[0047] B. aligning the jaw to a predetermined plane;

[0048] C. fitting a parameterized curve to said teeth, thereby generating a curve coordinates;

[0049] D. transforming said curve coordinates from Cartesian to non-linear coordinates

[0050] vii. superimposing results from said analyzing with said generated basic 2D panoramic view;

[0051] c. generating a 2D panoramic chart from said (vii).

[0052] Example 22. The method according to example 21, wherein a source of data for said generating a 3D model of said teeth is one or more of: a. an intraoral camera; b. MRI imagery; c. X-ray images; d. IR images; e. US data; f. transillumination data; g. fluorescence data; h. light scattering data; and i. sub-gingival 3D information.

[0053] Example 23. The method according to example 21 or example 22, wherein said analyzing 3D model and / or 2D model comprises using one or more of image processing, 3D-shape analysis and multiple 3D-bodies co-location.Example 24. The method according to any one of examples 21-23, wherein said analyzing 3D model and / or 2D model comprises one or more of extracting clinical status and detecting dental problems.

[0054] Example 25. The method according to any one of examples 21-24, wherein said method is performed in real-time while scanning said teeth and / or while performing other measurements.

[0055] Example 26. The method according to any one of examples 21-25, wherein said additional data comprises one or more of pocket depths; bleeding areas; gum recession measurement; cementoenamel junction (CEJ) locations; clinical attachment loss (CAL) determinations; bone loss and bone supporting level; tooth mobility; furcation involvement; mucogingival line; plaque and calculus; missing teeth; restoration data; interproximal gap, abnormalities; damage to the teeth; cracks in teeth; inflammation and / or swelling; loss of contact points between teeth; teeth color or shade; and decay.

[0056] Example 27. A method of generating a teeth panoramic view, comprising:

[0057] a. generating a 3D model of said teeth;

[0058] b. transforming the 3D model into a 2D panoramic view.

[0059] Example 28. A method of generating a generating a 3D model of teeth, comprising: a. generating and / or collecting a 3D model of said teeth;

[0060] b. generating and / or collecting 2D color images;

[0061] c. generating and / or collecting additional data;

[0062] d. merging all data from (b) and (c) into said 3D model.

[0063] Example 29. A method of transforming a 3D model of teeth into a 2D panoramic chart, comprising:

[0064] a. analyzing 3D model and / or 2D model data from an acquired 3D model;

[0065] b. generating a basic 2D panoramic view from said 3D model; said generating comprises calculating a transformation from said 3D model to said basic 2D panoramic view;

[0066] c. superimposing results from said analyzing with said generated basic 2D panoramic view; d. generating a 2D panoramic chart from said (c).

[0067] Example 30. A method of generating a 2D panoramic view of teeth from a 3D teeth model, comprising:

[0068] a. generating and / or collecting a 3D model of said teeth;

[0069] b. performing teeth segmentation;

[0070] c. aligning the jaw to a predetermined plane;

[0071] d. fitting a parameterized curve to said teeth, thereby generating a curve coordinates;

[0072] e. transforming said curve coordinates from Cartesian to non-linear coordinates.

[0073] Example 31. A method for performing a 3D flow pocket depth measurement, comprising:a. finding a gum line;

[0074] b. inserting a probe into a pocket;

[0075] c. capturing an image of said probe in said pocket;

[0076] d. calculating a depth of at least one feature in said image;

[0077] e. calculating a pocket depth based on a result of said calculating a depth of at least one feature in said image.

[0078] Example 32. A method for performing a 2D direct pocket depth measurement, comprising: a. acquiring a pre-scan of teeth;

[0079] b. inserting a probe into a pocket;

[0080] c. capturing a video of said probe in said pocket;

[0081] d. analyzing said video;

[0082] e. calculating a pocket depth based on a result of analyzing said video.

[0083] Example 33. A method for performing a 3D direct pocket depth measurement, comprising: a. inserting a probe into a pocket;

[0084] b. capturing a video of said probe in said pocket;

[0085] c. analyzing said video;

[0086] d. calculating a pocket depth based on a result of analyzing said video.

[0087] Example 34. A method for performing pocket depth measurement, comprising:

[0088] a. performing a first pocket depth measurement;

[0089] b. performing a second pocket depth measurement;

[0090] c. performing a third pocket depth measurement;

[0091] d. merging the results of the first, second and third measurements.

[0092] Example 35. The method according to example 34, wherein said first pocket depth measurement is a 3D flow pocket depth measurement and comprises:

[0093] a. finding a gum line;

[0094] b. inserting a probe into a pocket;

[0095] c. capturing an image of said probe in said pocket;

[0096] d. calculating a depth of at least one feature in said image;

[0097] e. calculating a pocket depth based on a result of said calculating a depth of at least one feature in said image.

[0098] Example 36. The method according to example 34, wherein said second pocket depth is a 2D direct pocket depth measurement and comprises:

[0099] a. acquiring a pre-scan of teeth;

[0100] b. inserting a probe into a pocket;c. capturing a video of said probe in said pocket;

[0101] d. analyzing said video;

[0102] e. calculating a pocket depth based on a result of analyzing said video.

[0103] Example 37. The method according to example 34, wherein said third pocket depth is a 3D direct pocket depth measurement and comprises:

[0104] a. inserting a probe into a pocket;

[0105] b. capturing a video of said probe in said pocket;

[0106] c. analyzing said video;

[0107] d. calculating a pocket depth based on a result of analyzing said video.

[0108] Example 38. A scanning system, comprising:

[0109] a. a body having approximal end, a distal end and a longitudinal axis extending from said proximal end to said distal end;

[0110] b. a handle on said proximal end;

[0111] c. a head on said distal end;

[0112] d. one camera in said body and having a field of view (FOV) perpendicular to said longitudinal axis of said body;

[0113] e. at least one probe connected to said distal end and extending perpendicular to said longitudinal axis and into said FOV.

[0114] Example 39. The scanning system according to example 38, wherein said probe is mounted on a removable adaptor; said adaptor configured to be mounted on said head.

[0115] Example 40. The scanning system according to example 38 or example 39, further comprising one or more light projectors configured for projecting at least one light onto said FOV.

[0116] Example 41. The scanning system according to any one of examples 38-40, further comprising one or more mirrors configured for directing said FOV from said longitudinal axis to said perpendicular to said longitudinal axis;

[0117] Example 42. The scanning system according to any one of examples 38-41, wherein said scanning system comprises a length of from 50mm to 200mm.

[0118] Example 43. The scanning system according to any one of examples 38-42, wherein said scanning system comprises a width of from 5mm to 50mm.

[0119] Example 44. The scanning system according to any one of examples 38-43, wherein said scanning system comprises a height of from 5mm to 50mm.

[0120] Example 45. The scanning system according to any one of examples 38-44, wherein said probe comprises a length of from 10mm to 30mm.Example 46. The scanning system according to any one of examples 38-45, wherein a distance between said camera and said probe is from about 1mm to 5mm.

[0121] Example 47. The scanning system according to any one of examples 38-46, wherein said one or more light projectors are configured for generating a depth image and / or a full 3D model.

[0122] Example 48. The scanning system according to any one of examples 38-47, wherein a distance between said one or more light projectors and said camera is from 3mm to 20mm.

[0123] Example 49. The scanning system according to any one of examples 38-48, wherein said one or more projectors are located at a place having an equal distance from said camera.

[0124] Example 50. The scanning system according to any one of examples 38-49, wherein a combination of said distance between said camera and said probe and said length of said probe, provide an optimal configuration to perform 2D measurements.

[0125] Example 51. A method for transforming a set of 2D teeth images into a 2D panoramic chart, comprising capturing a set of 2D images of said teeth by scanning at least one camera along the arch, said capturing comprises:

[0126] a. Generating and / or collecting a set of 2D images of said teeth;

[0127] b. Generating and / or collecting additional data; and

[0128] c. Merging data from (a) and (b) into said 2D panoramic chart.

[0129] Example 52. A scanning system configured for measuring a plurality of dental features, comprising: a. a body having approximal end, a distal end and a longitudinal axis extending from said proximal end to said distal end; b. a handle on said proximal end; c. a head on said distal end; d. one or more cameras in said body and having a field of view (FOV) perpendicular to said longitudinal axis of said body; said one or more cameras configured for capturing and / or measuring dental features using visible light imaging; e. at least one probe connected to said distal end and extending perpendicular to said longitudinal axis and into said FOV; f. at least one additional measurement component configured to measure at least one additional dental feature using other than visible light imaging.

[0130] Example 53. The scanning system according to example 52, wherein said at least one additional measurement component is configured to capture and / or measure dental features using one or more of UV light, transillumination, fluorescence, enhancing optics, optical filters for the camera, optic fiber, IR light, US, near-infrared transillumination (NIRI / NIR), optical coherence tomography (OCT), hyperspectral imaging, Photoplethysmography (PPG), optical perfusion, structured light, 3D optical metrology, imaging / visualization of dedicated enhancing materials, chemical sensors.

[0131] Example 54. The scanning system according to example 52 or example 53, wherein said system is configured to measure dental feature is one or more of caries, pre-caries, plaque, calculus,demineralization, biofilm maturity, extrinsic stains, food debris, temporary deposits, healthy enamel, CEJ, gingival inflammatory status, oxygenation, vascular changes, enamel thickness, cracks, restoration interfaces, gingival blood flow, inflammation, healing responses, pulp vitality via blood flow, tooth geometry, gingival margins, wear, recession, volumetric changes over time, Volatile Sulfur Compounds (VSCs).

[0132] Example 55. The scanning system according to any one of examples 52-54, wherein said probe is mounted on a removable adaptor; said adaptor configured to be mounted on said head.

[0133] Example 56. The scanning system according to any one of examples 52-55, further comprising one or more light projectors configured for projecting at least one light onto said FOV.

[0134] Example 57. The scanning system according to any one of examples 52-56, wherein said scanning system is characterized by one or more of:

[0135] a. a length of from 50mm to 200mm;

[0136] b. a width of from 5mm to 50mm;

[0137] c. a height of from 5mm to 50mm;

[0138] d. a probe having a length of from 10mm to 30mm.

[0139] Example 58. The scanning system according to any one of examples 52-57, wherein said scanning system comprises two cameras; and wherein the system is characterized by one or more of:

[0140] a. a distance between said two cameras is from 3 mm to 12mm;

[0141] b. a distance between each of said two cameras and said probe is from about 2mm to 5mm; c. a distance between said one or more light projectors and said one or more cameras is from 3 mm to 20mm.

[0142] Example 59. The scanning system according to any one of examples 52-58, wherein said one or more light projectors are configured for generating a depth image and / or a full 3D model.

[0143] Example 60. The scanning system according to any one of examples 52-59, wherein said one or more light projectors are located at a place having an equal distance from each camera from said two cameras.

[0144] Example 61. The scanning system according to any one of examples 52-60, wherein a combination of said distance between said two cameras, said distance between said two cameras and said probe and said length of said probe, provide an optimal configuration to perform 2D / 3D measurements.

[0145] Example 62. The scanning system according to any one of examples 52-61, further comprising at least one processor and / or circuitry.

[0146] Example 63. The scanning system according to any one of examples 52-62, wherein said at least one processor and / or circuitry comprise instructions to perform said capturing and / or measuringdental features using one or more of said one or more cameras and said at least one additional measurement component.

[0147] Example 64. The scanning system according to any one of examples 52-63, wherein said at least one processor and / or circuitry comprise instructions for generating a periodontal chart utilizing data from said captured and / or measured dental features.

[0148] Example 65. The scanning system according to any one of examples 52-64, wherein said at least one processor and / or circuitry comprise instructions to integrate data from said captured and / or measured dental features.

[0149] Example 67. The scanning system according to any one of examples 52-66, wherein said at least one processor and / or circuitry comprise instructions for providing data for generating a periodontal chart according to example 1.

[0150] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and / or scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which the invention pertains. Although methods and materials similar or equivalent to those described herein can be used in the practice or testing of embodiments of the invention, exemplary methods and / or materials are described below. In case of conflict, the patent specification, including definitions, will control. In addition, the materials, methods, and examples are illustrative only and are not intended to be necessarily limiting.

[0151] As will be appreciated by one skilled in the art, some embodiments of the present invention may be embodied as a system, method or computer program product. Accordingly, some embodiments of the present invention may take the form of an entirely hardware embodiment, an entirely software embodiment (including firmware, resident software, micro-code, etc.) or an embodiment combining software and hardware aspects that may all generally be referred to herein as a “circuit,” “module” or “system.” Furthermore, some embodiments of the present invention may take the form of a computer program product embodied in one or more computer readable medium(s) having computer readable program code embodied thereon. Implementation of the method and / or system of some embodiments of the invention can involve performing and / or completing selected tasks manually, automatically, or a combination thereof. Moreover, according to actual instrumentation and equipment of some embodiments of the method and / or system of the invention, several selected tasks could be implemented by hardware, by software or by firmware and / or by a combination thereof, e.g., using an operating system.

[0152] For example, hardware for performing selected tasks according to some embodiments of the invention could be implemented as a chip or a circuit. As software, selected tasks according to some embodiments of the invention could be implemented as a plurality of software instructions being executed by a computer using any suitable operating system. In an exemplary embodiment of theinvention, one or more tasks according to some exemplary embodiments of method and / or system as described herein are performed by a data processor, such as a computing platform for executing a plurality of instructions. Optionally, the data processor includes a volatile memory for storing instructions and / or data and / or a non-volatile storage, for example, a magnetic hard-disk and / or removable media, for storing instructions and / or data. Optionally, a network connection is provided as well. A display and / or a user input device such as a keyboard or mouse are optionally provided as well.

[0153] Any combination of one or more computer readable medium(s) may be utilized for some embodiments of the invention. The computer readable medium may be a computer readable signal medium or a computer readable storage medium. A computer readable storage medium may be, for example, but not limited to, an electronic, magnetic, optical, electromagnetic, infrared, or semiconductor system, apparatus, or device, or any suitable combination of the foregoing. More specific examples (a non-exhaustive list) of the computer readable storage medium would include the following: an electrical connection having one or more wires, a portable computer diskette, a hard disk, a random access memory (RAM), a read-only memory (ROM), an erasable programmable readonly memory (EPROM or Flash memory), an optical fiber, a portable compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM), an optical storage device, a magnetic storage device, or any suitable combination of the foregoing. In the context of this document, a computer readable storage medium may be any tangible medium that can contain, or store a program for use by or in connection with an instruction execution system, apparatus, or device.

[0154] A computer readable signal medium may include a propagated data signal with computer readable program code embodied therein, for example, in baseband or as part of a carrier wave. Such a propagated signal may take any of a variety of forms, including, but not limited to, electro-magnetic, optical, or any suitable combination thereof. A computer readable signal medium may be any computer readable medium that is not a computer readable storage medium and that can communicate, propagate, or transport a program for use by or in connection with an instruction execution system, apparatus, or device.

[0155] Program code embodied on a computer readable medium and / or data used thereby may be transmitted using any appropriate medium, including but not limited to wireless, wireline, optical fiber cable, RF, etc., or any suitable combination of the foregoing.

[0156] Computer program code for carrying out operations for some embodiments of the present invention may be written in any combination of one or more programming languages, including an object oriented programming language such as Java, Smalltalk, C++ or the like and conventional procedural programming languages, such as the "C" programming language or similar programminglanguages. The program code may execute entirely on the user's computer, partly on the user's computer, as a stand-alone software package, partly on the user's computer and partly on a remote computer or entirely on the remote computer or server. In the latter scenario, the remote computer may be connected to the user's computer through any type of network, including a local area network (LAN) or a wide area network (WAN), or the connection may be made to an external computer (for example, through the Internet using an Internet Service Provider).

[0157] Some embodiments of the present invention may be described below with reference to flowchart illustrations and / or block diagrams of methods, apparatus (systems) and computer program products according to embodiments of the invention. It will be understood that each block of the flowchart illustrations and / or block diagrams, and combinations of blocks in the flowchart illustrations and / or block diagrams, can be implemented by computer program instructions. These computer program instructions may be provided to a processor of a general purpose computer, special purpose computer, or other programmable data processing apparatus to produce a machine, such that the instructions, which execute via the processor of the computer or other programmable data processing apparatus, create means for implementing the functions / acts specified in the flowchart and / or block diagram block or blocks.

[0158] These computer program instructions may also be stored in a computer readable medium that can direct a computer, other programmable data processing apparatus, or other devices to function in a particular manner, such that the instructions stored in the computer readable medium produce an article of manufacture including instructions which implement the function / act specified in the flowchart and / or block diagram block or blocks.

[0159] The computer program instructions may also be loaded onto a computer, other programmable data processing apparatus, or other devices to cause a series of operational steps to be performed on the computer, other programmable apparatus or other devices to produce a computer implemented process such that the instructions which execute on the computer or other programmable apparatus provide processes for implementing the functions / acts specified in the flowchart and / or block diagram block or blocks.

[0160] Some of the methods described herein are generally designed only for use by a computer, and may not be feasible or practical for performing purely manually, by a human expert. A human expert who wanted to manually perform similar tasks might be expected to use completely different methods, e.g., making use of expert knowledge and / or the pattern recognition capabilities of the human brain, which would be vastly more efficient than manually going through the steps of the methods described herein.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS

[0161] Some embodiments of the invention are herein described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings. With specific reference now to the drawings in detail, it is stressed that the particulars shown are by way of example and for purposes of illustrative discussion of embodiments of the invention. In this regard, the description taken with the drawings makes apparent to those skilled in the art how embodiments of the invention may be practiced.

[0162] In the drawings:

[0163] Figure 1 is a flowchart of an exemplary general method of generating a teeth panoramic view and using the teeth panoramic view, according to some embodiments of the invention;

[0164] Figure 2 is a flowchart of an exemplary method of generating a 3D model, according to some embodiments of the invention;

[0165] Figure 3 is a flowchart of an exemplary method of transforming a 3D model into a 2D panoramic chart, according to some embodiments of the invention;

[0166] Figure 4 is a flowchart of an exemplary method of generating a panoramic view, according to some embodiments of the invention;

[0167] Figure 5 is an image of a 3D model that includes photorealistic view of the teeth and gums, according to some embodiments of the invention;

[0168] Figure 6 is an image of an exemplary teeth segmentation, according to some embodiments of the invention;

[0169] Figure 7 is an image of an exemplary alignment, according to some embodiments of the invention;

[0170] Figure 8 is a schematic representation and an image of an exemplary fitting of a parameterized curve, according to some embodiments of the invention;

[0171] Figure 9 is an image of an exemplary transformation of the curve coordinates from cartesian to non-linear coordinates, according to some embodiments of the invention;

[0172] Figure 10 is a schematic representation of a scanning system, according to some embodiments of the invention;

[0173] Figure 11 is a schematic representation of a scanning system with a probe, according to some embodiments of the invention;

[0174] Figure 12 is a schematic representation of a scanning system with an attachment, according to some embodiments of the invention;

[0175] Figures 13a-f are schematic representations of an additional embodiment of a scanning system with a probe, according to some embodiments of the invention;Figure 13g is a schematic representation of an exemplary scanning system with one camera, according to some embodiments of the invention;

[0176] Figure 14a is an image of an exemplary 2D panoramic chart, according to some embodiments of the invention;

[0177] Figures 14b and 14c showing schematic representation of dedicated displays, according to some embodiments of the invention;

[0178] Figure 15 is a flowchart comparing the different methods of measuring pocket depth, according to some embodiments of the invention;

[0179] Figure 16 is a flowchart of an exemplary method of generating a 2D panoramic model, according to some embodiments of the invention;

[0180] Figure 17 is a flowchart of an exemplary method of transforming a 2D panoramic model into a 2D panoramic chart, according to some embodiments of the invention;

[0181] Figure 18 is a flowchart of an exemplary general method of transforming a 3D teeth model into a 2D panoramic chart, according to some embodiments of the invention; and

[0182] Figure 19 is a flowchart of an exemplary general method of transforming a set of 2D teeth images into a 2D panoramic chart, according to some embodiments of the invention.

[0183] DESCRIPTION OF SPECIFIC EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION

[0184] The present invention, in some embodiments thereof, relates to a teeth panoramic view and, more particularly, but not exclusively, to a systems and methods for providing a teeth panoramic view and updating / presenting data therein.

[0185] Overview

[0186] An aspect of some embodiments of the invention relates to generating a personalized teeth panoramic view, optionally a 2D panoramic view, and using it as a platform to display information, for example in a 2D panoramic chart. In some embodiments, the panoramic view, optionally a 2D panoramic view, optionally shows, for example by superimposing and / or adding, measurements from the patients mouth in the relevant place on the panoramic view in a dedicated panoramic chart. In some embodiments, the measurements are obtained using a device, optionally comprising a probe, which is used in the measurements of one or more features in the mouth, for example, the pocket depth at different places around the teeth. In some embodiments, additional details are shown in the panoramic view, for example, bleeding, missing teeth and / or any other clinical detail that are related to a specific position in the mouth. In some embodiments, these details are tagged to a specific locationon the panoramic view. In some embodiments, additional technologies are used in concomitance with the device having a probe, and the complementary data is also fed into the panoramic chart.

[0187] An aspect of some embodiments of the invention relates to methods and systems for utilizing periodontal data from automated devices in dental, medical, and interdisciplinary procedures. In some embodiments, the systems and methods disclosed herein are used for medical and dental diagnostics. In some embodiments, the system and methods disclosed herein include one or more of capturing, analyzing and applying periodontal data obtained from automated measurement devices. In some embodiments, the data is used in one or more of fields, for example dental, medical, insurance, and interdisciplinary procedures. In some embodiments, data from different sources is integrated within the system, for example data from medical devices, Dental and Medical Patient Management Systems (PMS), and voice recognition technologies. In some embodiments, the collected data is incorporated autonomously into diagnostic charts, indices, risk assessments, dental and / or medical recommendations, and explanatory materials. In some embodiments, potential advantages of the systems and method disclosed herein include the provision of accurate and reproducible measurement of periodontal parameters. The systems and methods disclosed herein allow the expansion of the use of periodontal data beyond dentistry into systemic health and interdisciplinary fields. For example, the systems and methods disclosed herein allow for the enhanced efficiency and reliability in insurance claims and regulatory compliance. Furthermore, the systems and methods disclosed herein allow for the integration with Al systems for predictive and personalized healthcare. Lastly, the system and methods disclosed herein allow for secure data management ensuring privacy and interoperability with existing digital health infrastructures.

[0188] Before explaining at least one embodiment of the invention in detail, it is to be understood that the invention is not necessarily limited in its application to the details of construction and the arrangement of the components and / or methods set forth in the following description and / or illustrated in the drawings and / or the Examples. The invention is capable of other embodiments or of being practiced or carried out in various ways.

[0189] Referring now to Figure 1, showing a flowchart of an exemplary general method of generating a teeth panoramic view and using the teeth panoramic view, according to some embodiments of the invention.

[0190] As mentioned above, in many dental clinics today, 3D models of the teeth are used for many applications, from modeling for a crown to orthodontics. These models are an accurate digitized representation of the patient teeth. On the other hand, dental caregivers use forms to document clinical conditions of their patients. These forms have a tabulated stylized representation of the human teethwhich allows the dental caregivers to easily mark the location of the problematic areas. Currently, there is no suitable representation of the 3D information combined with clinical information in a 2D view. In general, using a scanner with or without sub-gingival information and providing a panoramic 2D view superimposed with clinical data which comes from different sources, such as, but not limited to intraoral camera, MRI imagery, X-ray images and sub-gingival 3D information, allows better understanding of the dental cavity clinical state for the dental caregivers and clear accessible relevant data for the patient.

[0191] In some embodiments, an exemplary method explaining the general concept of the invention comprises one or more or the following actions:

[0192] 1. Generating a 3D model of the teeth (102);

[0193] 2. Transforming the 3D model into a 2D panoramic chart (104); and

[0194] 3. Updating the 2D panoramic chart with relevant clinical data (106). For example, by superimposing the clinical data with the chart.

[0195] In the following paragraphs, detailed description of each action will be further provided.

[0196] Exemplary generation of a 3D model of the teeth

[0197] Referring now to Figure 2, showing a flowchart of an exemplary method of generating a 3D model, according to some embodiments of the invention. In some embodiments, the generation of a panoramic layout of the teeth is based on information from different sources.

[0198] In some embodiments, a 3D measurement of the teeth is generated and / or collected (202), for example from a commonly available data that dental caregivers generate using intraoral scanners. In some embodiments, the 3D scan is usually in standard 3D format.

[0199] In some embodiments, optionally, color 2D images are generated and / or collected (204). In some embodiments, optionally, the 2D images are then overlayered with the 3D scan.

[0200] In some embodiments, optionally, additional information is generated and / or collected (206) and then added to the 3D scan, for example, from MRI imagery, X-ray images, IR images and US data. In some embodiments, the additional information may vary from 2D images to 3D data of visible dental areas such as teeth to under layers as jaw bone images, sub-gingival imagery, gum, details of inner parts of a tooth using IR (for example NIR), transillumination, fluorescence, light scattering, multispectral imaging.

[0201] In some embodiments, all the data is merged into the 3D model (208).

[0202] Exemplary transformation of the 3D model into a 2D panoramic chart

[0203] Referring now to Figure 3, showing a flowchart of an exemplary method of transforming a 3D model into a 2D panoramic chart, according to some embodiments of the invention. In some embodiments, following the collection of the data, two processes are performed:1. Analyzing the 2D and / or 3D data (302), for example, by means of image processing, 3D shape analysis and multiple 3D-bodies co-location to extract clinical status, detect dental problems, machine learning, Al, etc.

[0204] 2. Generating a basic panoramic view (304).

[0205] 3. Calculating the transformation from 3D data to 2D image (306). In some embodiments, the result of the calculation is used to overlay (superimpose) clinical information on the right location in the 2D panoramic view.

[0206] 4. Superimposing the results of the analysis done in (302) and the basic panoramic view (308).

[0207] In some embodiments, superimposing allows to show an image of the jaw that comprises one or more of a color overlay, markings indicating clinical status indications and / or severity of clinical status.

[0208] 5. Generating an interactive 2D panoramic view (310) of the jaw presenting clinical data on a spread jaw image. In some embodiments, the view is configured to allow the dental caregivers to review a specific dental area and / or specific tooth. In some embodiments the data is presented in one or more of a tabular view, an image, a video and 3D format. In some embodiments, two or more 2D panoramic views of the same jaw are presented simultaneously, for example buccal and lingual views or occlusal and facial views.

[0209] In some embodiments, optionally, the 2D panoramic view is generated in real-time while performing a dental 3D scan and / or other measurement (like pocket depth measurements). In some embodiments the panoramic view is generated by using a pre-existing 3D dental model from external source. In some embodiments, the data is added to the 2D panoramic view in real time. For example, when bleeding at specific location while the probe is touching the gums in that area is detected, the data is added to the 2D panoramic view.

[0210] In some embodiments, the 2D panoramic view is merged together with a standard periodontal chart where the tables of the periodontal charts are the same but the schematic view of the teeth is replaced with the 3D and / or 2D panoramic view. In some embodiments the periodontal table is filled in real-time during the pocket depth measurements.

[0211] Rationale of using a panoramic 2D view

[0212] In a panoramic 2D view of a jaw the patient teeth are organized on an imaginary straight line going approximately through the center of the teeth. Potential advantages of using this view are one or more of:

[0213] 1. Potentially allows combining both the benefits of an accurate representation of the patient teeth, and the benefits of a tabulated representation, similar to the standardized forms dental caregivers are familiar with, which can potentially enhance patient education and improve case acceptance.2. Potentially allows for both the patient and the dental caregivers to address and view problems which are specific to the patient, while still being able to efficiently mark problematic areas and clinical issues; and facilitated the patient’s understanding of his condition, which also can potentially enhance patient education and improve case acceptance.

[0214] 3. This view is potentially optimal for presenting dental clinical information to dental caregivers and dental related teams, since it is similar to the charting diagrams, such as periodontal charting, that are currently used for representing dental information,

[0215] 4. This view allows to use many algorithmic benefits as it is aligned to intuitive axes - an axis which is parallel to the head axes easily allows distinguishing between “up” and “down”, regardless of the patient’s head orientation. An axis which goes along the teeth will ease separation between different teeth and so forth.

[0216] In some embodiments, in the panoramic 2D view of a jaw, the patient’s teeth are organized on an imaginary straight line going approximately through the center of the jaw, but the specific relative height and\or location of each tooth in relation to the jaw or in relation to a chosen reference point is shown in the panoramic view, thereby providing accurate information about each tooth.

[0217] Exemplary method of panoramic view generation

[0218] Referring now to Figure 4 showing a flowchart of an exemplary method of generating a panoramic view, according to some embodiments of the invention; and to Figures 5-9, showing images related to the explanations of the exemplary method of generating a panoramic view, according to some embodiments of the invention.

[0219] In the following paragraphs, a more detailed explanations of how a “calculation a transformation from 3D data to 2D image” as disclosed in 306 in the flowchart in Figure 3, will be provided.

[0220] In some embodiments, an exemplary method of generating a 2D panoramic view from the 3D data comprises one or more of the following actions:

[0221] 1. As mentioned above, the dental caregivers (or any other dedicated personnel) generates and / or collects a 3D model of the teeth and gums (402), for instance using an intraoral scanner (IOS) as disclosed herein elsewhere. In some embodiments, the 3D model includes also photorealistic view of the teeth and gums, as shown for example in Figure 5.

[0222] 2. Performing teeth segmentation (404), which includes identifying teeth, providing them with specific numbers, and separating the identified teeth from soft tissues (such as gums, cheek, tongue, etc.), as shown for example in Figure 6.

[0223] 3. Aligning the jaw to the XY plane (406) so that the occlusal / incisal is towards the positive Z axis, as schematically shown in Figure 7.4. Fitting a parameterized curve to the teeth (408), as schematically shown in Figure 8. In some embodiments, the curve is made of two straight lines (802 / 804) for the molar and premolar teeth and an arc (806) for the front teeth. In some embodiments, the curve is fitted to the teeth by optimizing a few parameters (for example: the radius of the arc).

[0224] 5. Transforming the curve coordinates from Cartesian to non-linear coordinates (410) where the Z axis stays the same and the curve is used as the X-axis. In this view, the teeth are aligned so that the facial side is towards the positive Y axis and the occlusal / incisal side is toward the positive Z axis, as shown for example in Figure 9.

[0225] Exemplary method of occlusal view generation

[0226] Referring now to Figure 5, showing image of occlusal view, according to some embodiments of the invention.

[0227] The video or images obtained during the charting with the device described below can be stitched together to provide occlusal view of the upper and lower jaws.

[0228] In some embodiments, an exemplary method of generating a 2D panoramic occlusal view comprises one or more of the following actions:

[0229] 1. Collecting all available images and videos.

[0230] 2. Performing teeth segmentation, which may include also identifying teeth, providing them with specific numbers, and separating the identified teeth from soft tissues (such as gums, cheek, tongue, etc.), as shown for example in Figure 6.

[0231] 3. Assessing if there is missing data from the images / videos.

[0232] 4. The images are corrected for the perspective transformation to create an occlusal view of each image.

[0233] 5. If there is missing data, generating data to fill the gaps in the images to create a view of the occluded view or the missing view in each image.

[0234] 6. Stitching together images using features on the teeth and\or using teeth segmentation and or numbering to create a full occlusal view of the jaw.

[0235] In some embodiments, said 2D panoramic occlusal view can be produced from occlusal view of the 3D model.

[0236] Exemplary method of panoramic view generation

[0237] Referring back to Figure 5, showing a 3D model that includes photorealistic view of the teeth and gums, according to some embodiments of the invention.

[0238] In some embodiments, the system is configured to generate a complete image of the teeth and gums at a desired view angle, even if the original image is not a complete image or was not taken at the desired angle. In some embodiments, the system is configured to utilize all the information at itsdisposal to generate the desired image. For example, the system is configured to take data from images and videos obtained during the charting process (for example using the device with the probe disclosed herein) and stitch together the data to generate the desired image, showing all the teeth, at the desired view angle. In some embodiments, in cases where there is missing data, for example, due to occluded views, the system is configured to generate the missing data (missing the blanks) in order to generate the desired image.

[0239] In some embodiments, additional actions performed in order to generate a 2D panoramic view to be used in the 2D panoramic chart comprise one or more of the following actions:

[0240] 1. Collecting all available images and videos.

[0241] 2. Performing teeth segmentation, which may include also identifying teeth, providing them with specific numbers, and separating the identified teeth from soft tissues (such as gums, cheek, tongue, etc.), as shown for example in Figure 6.

[0242] 3. Assessing if there is missing data from the images / videos.

[0243] 4. The images are corrected for the perspective transformation to create the required view of each image.

[0244] 5. If there is missing data, generating data to fill the gaps in the images to create a view of the occluded view or the missing view in each image.

[0245] 6. Stitching together images using features on the teeth and\or using teeth segmentation and or numbering to create a full view of the jaw.

[0246] Exemplary method of 3D view generation

[0247] In some embodiments, the 2D images are obtained from intraoral scans, photographic images, radiographic images, or other dental imaging modalities, and are spatially aligned and superimposed onto a three-dimensional (3D) digital model of a generalized or patient- specific 3D jaw model.

[0248] In some embodiments, the superimposition is performed on one or more regions of the 3D jaw model, including but not limited to an occluded surface, buccal side, lingual side, labial side, or substantially the entire 3D jaw structure. In some embodiments, the 2D scanned teeth images may be mapped selectively to a defined surface region or globally across the full 3D jaw model.

[0249] In some embodiments, image processing algorithms are employed to scale, orient, warp, and conform the 2D scanned teeth images to match the curvature, topology, and geometric contours of the selected region or entirety of the 3D jaw model, thereby generating a visually and anatomically coherent composite structure.and

[0250] In some embodiments, data is collected using dedicated devices, which utilize one or more types of measuring technologies, as will be further disclosed below. In some embodiments, data collected using one or more of the below measuring technologies is integrated, optionally automatically, into the personal chart of the patient, and displayed accordingly in a 2D panoramic periodontal chart, as will be further explained below.

[0251] Referring now to Figure 10, showing a schematic representation of a scanning system, according to some embodiments of the invention.

[0252] In some embodiments, the scanning of the jaw is done by a dental measurement device 1000, for example, an intraoral scanner (IOS - 1000), including one or more of: a handle 1002, an optical sensor 1004 (for example, one or more cameras), one or more light sources (for example structured light) 1010. In some embodiments, optical sensor 1004 receives images reflected towards the sensor by connecting an adaptor with a mirror 1006 to the handle 1002, while optionally a light source 1010 projects structured light. In some embodiments, the IOS 1000 generates a 3D model of the teeth 1008 it scans.

[0253]

[0254] Referring now to Figure 11, showing a schematic representation of a scanning system 1100 with a probe, according to some embodiments of the invention.

[0255] In some embodiments, additionally or alternatively, the adaptor with the mirror is replaced and / or comprises a probe 1102 which is inserted during the scan into the patient's gums 1008 (insertion into the gums not shown). The probe can be made from metal or plastic which combined with the optical sensor provides sub-gingival measurements. In some embodiments, the probe is for single use and, in some embodiments, the probe can be removed in order to sterilize it (for example autoclave) before re- attaching it.

[0256]

[0257] with other attachments

[0258] Referring now to Figure 12, showing a schematic representation of a scanning system 1200 with an attachment, according to some embodiments of the invention.

[0259] In some embodiments, the system is configured to receive an adaptor 1202 with dedicated hardware / software which includes functionalities such as but not limited to UV light, transillumination, fluorescence, enhancing optics, optical filters for the camera, optic fiber, IR light or US. In some embodiments, the combination of the optic sensor in the device and the adaptor 1202 when scanning teeth, gums, bone and sub-gingival area provides additional visible and non-visible 2D and 3D data.with different

[0260] In some embodiments, one or more measuring technologies are used to collect relevant data that will be later displayed in a 2D or 3D panoramic periodontal chart. For example, exemplary measuring technologies can be: visible light imaging, fluorescence imaging, near-infrared transillumination (NIRVNIR), optical coherence tomography (OCT), hyperspectral imaging, Photoplethysmography (PPG), optical perfusion, structured light, 3D optical metrology, imaging / visualization of dedicated enhancing materials, chemical sensors, and more. In some embodiments, the collected data is fused and / or combined in order to be displayed to the user and / or the patient and / or to any one having proper permissions to access the data. In some embodiments the information from at least two different technologies is combined to get better diagnostic of the teeth and gums. In some embodiments, said combination is done using Al models.

[0261] Exemplary visible light imaging

[0262] In some embodiments, imaging using visible light can be done with the scanning system as described herein which utilizes white light illumination. In some embodiments, the obtained images are suitable for detecting one or more of: Caries; Cracks, fractures; Restorations, margins; Gingival inflammation (visual redness); and Plaque. In some embodiments, potential advantages are that it is simple to use, inexpensive and very intuitive to use. Additionally, it is excellent for documentation and patient communication. Furthermore, it is Al-friendly which allows to perform one or more of segmentation, tracking and diagnostics, such as bleeding detection.

[0263] Exemplary fluorescence imaging

[0264] In some embodiments, fluorescence imaging is used in dental measurements, using for example, excitation in wavelengths between 405nm and 450nm or 655nm. In some embodiments, the imaging is done using a matched filter that blocks the excitation wavelength. In some embodiments, devices comprising fluorescent cameras are used. In some embodiments, these technologies are used to measure and / or detect one or more of: Caries and pre-caries; Plaque and calculus (porphyrin-based red fluorescence); Demineralization; and Biofilm maturity. In some embodiments, exemplary key signals are: Healthy enamel = green fluorescence emission of the enamel; Demineralization = reduced green fluorescence is indication for early carries and demineralization of the enamel; Plaque / calculus = produce red / orange fluorescence emission, such as the porphyrin emission when illuminated with 405nm. In some embodiments, potential advantages of using fluorescence is that this technology is excellent for early detection, it allows for quantification (AF, lesion area), it provides strong evidence base to show the patients.and method for multimodal fluorescence and visible i for differentiation of dental surface conditions

[0265] In some embodiments, the systems disclosed herein are used as optical diagnostic systems for intraoral assessment, which combine fluorescence excitation imaging and visible reflectance imaging to differentiate between one or more of: Extrinsic stains; Food debris / temporary deposits; Dental plaque (biofilm); Mineralized calculus; Healthy enamel / CEJ; and Gingival inflammatory status.

[0266] In some embodiments, without being bound to theory, visible-light intraoral imaging alone cannot reliably distinguish between: Pigmented stains vs porphyrin-rich plaque; Mineralized calculus vs chromogenic deposits; Active biofilm vs inert discoloration. Concomitantly, fluorescence imaging alone may over-detect: Calculus; Chromogenic bacteria; Non-pathologic fluorescence. In some embodiments, the systems disclosed herein embrace a multimodal approach integrating reflectance and fluorescence with computational normalization.

[0267] In some embodiments, an exemplary system comprises one or more of:

[0268] 1. Visible illumination source: Broadband white LED (400-700 nm)

[0269] 2. Fluorescence excitation source: Narrowband excitation (such as -405 nm Or ~655nm) 3. Imaging sensor: RGB CMOS or multispectral sensor

[0270] 4. Optical filtering: Excitation filter (blocks visible leakage); Emission filter (for instance passes 430 nm-750 nm; suppresses excitation reflection)

[0271] 5. Processing module: Real-time image normalization; Spectral ratio computation; Pixel classification engine (ML or rule-based)

[0272] In some embodiments, an exemplary method of imaging acquisition comprises one or more of the following actions:

[0273] 1. Capturing a visible reflectance image of a dental surface.

[0274] 2. Capturing a fluorescence emission image under excitation illumination.

[0275] 3. Registering the two images spatially.

[0276] 4. Optionally performing reflectance-normalized fluorescence computation.

[0277] In some embodiments, reflectance-normalized fluorescence is performed to reduce confounding from one or more of: Surface curvature; Distance variation; Saliva film; Illumination intensity.

[0278] For example the system may compute: NF=Fred / ( Rgreen + Rbiue )i Where:

[0279] Fred= red fluorescence intensity

[0280] Rgreen> Rbiue= reflectance components from visible imageIn some embodiments the local surface normal direction vs. excitation source and camera is used for geometry compensation of the fluorescence emission. In some embodiments, this provides a geometry-compensated biochemical index.

[0281] Exemplary spectral-behavior-based differentiation

[0282] Dental Plaque (Biofilm): In some embodiments, exemplary spectral characteristics of dental plaque are one or more of: Moderate red fluorescence (porphyrins); Diffuse morphology; Texture irregularity; Reflectance low-to-medium. In some embodiments, exemplary classification indicators can be one or more of: Elevated normalized fluorescence; Non-mineral texture signature; Edge-blurred morphology.

[0283] Mineralized Calculus: In some embodiments, exemplary spectral characteristics of mineralized calculus are one or more of: Strong, stable red fluorescence; High structural contrast; Rough surface reflectance; Often near gingival margin. In some embodiments, exemplary classification indicators can be one or more of: High fluorescence + high micro-texture variance; Edge-defined geometry; Persistent over time (temporal tracking).

[0284] Extrinsic Stains: In some embodiments, exemplary spectral characteristics of extrinsic stains are one or more of: Visible discoloration under white light; Weak or absent red fluorescence; Uniform color distribution; Often chromogenic (coffee, tobacco, etc.). In some embodiments, exemplary classification indicators can be one or more of: High reflectance color deviation; Low normalized fluorescence; Spectral mismatch with porphyrin emission band.

[0285] Food Remnants: In some embodiments, exemplary spectral characteristics of food remnants are one or more of: Irregular geometry; Transient presence; Variable reflectance; Weak fluorescence unless fermented. In some embodiments, exemplary classification indicators can be one or more of: Shape discontinuity from tooth surface; Motion instability (temporal frames); Low mineral signature; Non-gingival adjacency.

[0286] Exemplary Classification Algorithm

[0287] In some embodiments, the system comprises a processor comprising intrusions for one or more of: Performing pixel- wise spectral ratio analysis; extracting morphological features, for example one or more of: edge sharpness, surface roughness and spatial adjacency to gingival margin; apply machine learning model: comprising one or more of: CNN, Random forest, Hybrid rule-based + ML. In some embodiments, exemplary outputs of the classification algorithm comprise one or more of: a plaque probability map; a calculus probability map; a stain probability map; and a debris probability map.Exemplary Temporal Persistence Filter

[0288] In some embodiments, optionally, in order to distinguish calculus from debris, the system is configured to capture images across multiple visits and track spatially consistent fluorescence signals. In some embodiments, for example, if the system identifies a persistent high-fluorescence region, this may indicate that there is calculus; while if the system identifies a transient region, this may indicate debris or plaque.

[0289] Exemplary Periodontal Status Integration

[0290] In some embodiments, optionally, the system is further configured to integrate one or more of: Gingival color analysis; Bleeding detection; Margin contour analysis - in order to generate one or more of: Inflammation index and Biofilm activity score.

[0291] Exemplary Potential Advantages Over Single-Modality Systems

[0292]

[0293] Therefore, in some embodiments, an exemplary system for performing multi-modal dental measurements comprises one or more of: at least one visible illumination source; at least one fluorescence excitation source; at least one imaging sensor; at least one processing module configured to compute a normalized fluorescence metric. In some embodiments, the system is configured to perform the following exemplary actions (method): acquiring reflectance image; acquiring fluorescence image; registering images; computing reflectance-compensated fluorescence ratio and classifying dental surface condition. In some embodiments, the system is configured to differentiate, optionally based on the classification, one or more of: plaque from stain; calculus from debris; biofilm from mineralized deposit. In some embodiments, the system is configured for one or more of: multispectral excitation (such as, 405 nm + 450 nm + 655 nm); polarization-based reflectance suppression; depth estimation via structured light + fluorescence overlay; and integration with halitosis sensing for metabolic validation. In some embodiments, potential advantages of the multi-modal system are a system that provides reflectance-normalized, morphology-aware, temporally- filtered multimodal differentiation of stains, plaque, calculus, and debris.

[0294] In some embodiments, an exemplary system for performing multi-modal dental measurements comprises one or more of: at least one visible illumination source; at least one fluorescence excitation source; at least one pattern projector; at least one imaging sensor; at least one processing module configured to compute a normalized fluorescence metric. Said pattern projector can be used for obtaining depth image, to calculate local surface normals direction vs. excitation source and camera and for geometry compensation of the fluorescence emission.

[0295]

[0296] In some embodiments, hyperspectral imaging is used in dental measurements. In some embodiments, devices comprising hyperspectral cameras are used and are configured to capture reflectance across many wavelengths, where each tissue has a spectral fingerprint. In some embodiments, these technologies are used to measure and / or detect one or more of: Caries; Plaque; Calculus; Gingival inflammation; and Oxygenation and vascular changes. In some embodiments, potential advantages of using hyperspectral is that this technology allows to capture a plurality if biomarkers in a single capture.

[0297]

[0298] In some embodiments, OCT imaging is used in dental measurements. In some embodiments, Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) allows to perform measurements in a non-invasive, noncontact manner using near-infrared light to produce high-resolution, cross-sectional, and 3D images of tissue microstructure. Similar to ultrasound but using light, it achieves micron-level resolution (2- 15pm) in real-time, allowing for early detection of dental diseases. In some embodiments, these technologies are used to measure and / or detect one or more of: early enamel caries; enamel thickness; cracks; restoration interfaces; and surface defects.

[0299]

[0300] In some embodiments, PPG imaging is used in dental measurements. In some embodiments, devices comprising one or more light and photodetectors are used to measure volumetric variations of blood circulation in the microvascular bed. In some embodiments, these technologies are used to measure and / or detect one or more of: Gingival blood flow; Inflammation; and healing response. In some embodiments, potential advantages of using PPG is that this technology allows to quantify soft- tissue health and complements probing actions and Bleeding on Probing (BOP).

[0301] Exemplary Raman Spectroscopy technologies

[0302] In some embodiments, Raman Spectroscopy is used in dental measurements. In some embodiments, the devices are configured to detect molecular compositions, for example phosphates,carbonates, collagen, etc. In some embodiments, these technologies are used to measure and / or detect one or more of: Demineralization chemistry; Caries activity; and enamel / dentin quality. In some embodiments, potential advantages of using Raman Spectroscopy analysis is that this technology allows to measure very specific biochemical information and it can distinguish between active and arrested lesions.

[0303]

[0304] In some embodiments, LDF is used in dental measurements. In some embodiments, the devices are configured to detect pulp vitality via blood flow. In some embodiments, potential advantages of using LDF is that this technology allows to generate an objective vitality measurement, which is non-thermal.

[0305]

[0306] In some embodiments, structure light and 3D Optical Metrology is used in dental measurements. In some embodiments, devices comprising one or more structure light and 3D Optical Metrology are used to measure and / or detect one or more of: tooth geometry; Gingival margins; Wear; Recession; and Volumetric changes over time. In some embodiments, potential advantages of using structure light and 3D Optical Metrology is that this technology is very precise and enables longitudinal tracking.

[0307] Exemplary use of external materials to

[0308]

[0309] measurements

[0310] In some embodiments, external materials like enhancers of caries (for example LumiCare™, are used to mark features in the teeth and then using visualization devices (like cameras), images are taken and saved in the system.

[0311]

[0312] In some embodiments, as mentioned above, multiple technologies can be used to populate a patient chart with data, for example by combining white light, fluorescence, subgingival measurements, 3D structured light and Al analytics. In some embodiments, these combined measurements enable one or more of: measurement of caries, periodontal features and biofilm in one workflow; generate quantitative indices; a basis to allow better patient communication by visualizing the data in a friendly manner to the patient; and generate a preventive dentistry plan.

[0313] Exemplary chemical sensor technologies

[0314] In some embodiments, the measurements devices (like scanner and / or probes described herein) comprise one or more chemical sensors configured to detect Volatile Sulfur Compounds (VSCs) which are known to indicate levels of halitosis. In some embodiments, potential advantages of using chemical sensors for the detection of halitosis is that this technology allows to correlate the VSCs with an active periodontal infection, it allows in real-time assessment of dental health, it works well withimaging measurements, it allows to provide a metabolic dimension to the measurements, which are usually missing form other systems.

[0315] In some embodiments, the chemical sensors are configured to detect Volatile Sulfur Compounds (VSCs) for halitosis measurement and are designed to identify and quantify sulfur-containing gases in human breath — primarily hydrogen sulfide (ILS), methyl mercaptan (C1LSH), and dimethyl sulfide (DMS) — which are strongly correlated with oral malodor. In some embodiments, the sensors are configured to operate reliably at very low concentrations (often ppb to low ppm) and in a challenging sampling environment characterized by high humidity, variable temperature, and the presence of many confounding breath volatiles (e.g., ethanol, acetone, ammonia, and general VOCs). In some embodiments, exemplary sensor technologies include electrochemical sensors, which provide strong sensitivity for ILS and sometimes C1LSH, and metal-oxide semiconductor (MOS) sensors, which detect VSCs via resistance changes in a heated sensing layer but can suffer from crosssensitivity unless carefully engineered. In some embodiments, the system also incorporate selective membranes, catalytic filters, or pre-concentration stages to better isolate VSCs from non- sulfur breath components.

[0316] In some embodiments, the measurement platforms may use multi-sensor arrays (often referred to as “electronic nose” systems) that combine multiple partially selective sensors — such as MOS elements, conductive polymers, functionalized carbon nanomaterials, or QCM sensors — to generate a VSC-related “signature” rather than relying on a single analyte measurement. In some embodiments, this approach can help distinguish oral-origin halitosis (often dominated by ILS and C1LSH from bacterial metabolism on the tongue and in periodontal pockets) from extra-oral halitosis, where DMS may be more prominent. In some embodiments, the sensors are calibrated against established reference methods such as gas chromatography or clinical scoring systems, and are evaluated for response time, repeatability, drift, and robustness to humidity.

[0317] Exemplary additional embodiment of a scanning system with probe

[0318] Referring now to Figures 13a-f, showing schematic representations of an additional embodiment of a scanning system 1300 with a probe, according to some embodiments of the invention.

[0319] In some embodiments, an exemplary scanning system 1300 comprises a body 1302, having a proximal end 1304 and a distal end 1306. In some embodiments, at the proximal end 1304 of the body 1302 there is a handle 1308. In some embodiments, at distal end 1306 of the body 1302 there is a head 1310 sized and shaped to be inserted into a mouth cavity (not shown). In some embodiments, the body 1302 includes inside (not shown) all the scanning components including one or more of: cameras, light projectors, mirrors and dedicated circuitry. In some embodiments, the exemplary scanningsystem 1300 comprises a probe 1312 connected to the head 1310 at the distal end 1306 of the body 1302. In some embodiments, the probe 1312 extends perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the body 1302. In some embodiments, the probe 1312 extends into the field of view of the cameras of the exemplary scanning system 1300. In some embodiments, the probe 1312 is connected to the head 1310 using a dedicated housing 1314, as shown for example in Figure 13b. In some embodiments, the probe 1312 is shaped and connected differently to the head 1310, for example it is connected as shown in 1102 in Figure 11.

[0320] In some embodiments, the exemplary scanning system 1300 utilizes a removable, optionally disposable, adaptor 1316 (shown for example in Figure 13c) configured for attaching any kind of hardware to the exemplary scanning system 1300, for example the probe 1312 or any other hardware, as explained also for system 1200 in relation to Figure 12. In some embodiments, adaptor 1316, covers scanning system 1300 to keep it sterile. In some embodiments, adaptor 1316 is autoclavable.

[0321] In some embodiments, the exemplary scanning system 1300 comprises a length of about 150mm (optionally a length of from about 100mm to about 120mm, optionally from about 80mm to about 170mm, optionally from about 50mm to about 200mm), as shown for example in Figure 13d, a width of about 15mm (optionally a width of from about 10mm to about 20mm, optionally from about 8mm to about 30mm, optionally from about 5mm to about 50mm) and a height of about 12mm (optionally a height of from about 10mm to about 20mm, optionally from about 8mm to about 30mm, optionally from about 5mm to about 50mm), as shown for example in Figure 13e.

[0322] In some embodiments, the probe 1312 comprises a length of about 20mm (optionally a length of from about 15mm to about 22mm, optionally from about 12mm to about 25mm, optionally from about 10mm to about 30mm), as schematically shown for example in Figure 13f. In some embodiments, the exemplary scanning system 1300 comprises one camera. In some embodiments, the exemplary scanning system 1300 comprises two cameras 1318, schematically shown as two white circles (since the cameras are actually inside the body 1302 of the exemplary scanning system 1300) in Figure 13f. In some embodiments, the distance between the two cameras 1318 is of about 7mm (optionally a distance of from about 5mm to about 9mm, optionally from about 4mm to about 10mm, optionally from about 3mm to about 15mm), as schematically shown for example in Figure 13f. In some embodiments, the distance between each of the two cameras 1318 and the probe 1312 is of about 3.5mm (optionally a distance of from about 3mm to about 4mm, optionally from about 2.5mm to about 4.5mm, optionally from about 2mm to about 8mm), as schematically shown for example in Figure 13f.

[0323] In some embodiments, the device comprises a light projector (not shown) inside the scanning system head 1310. In some embodiments, the light projector is used to generate a depth image and / ora full 3D model. In some embodiments, the distance between the light projector and one of the cameras is about 7mm (optionally a distance of from about 5mm to about 9mm, optionally from about 4mm to about 10mm, optionally from about 3mm to about 20mm). In some embodiments, the projector is located at a place having an equal distance from each camera from two cameras (or more).

[0324] In some embodiments, the combination of the distance between the cameras 1318, the distance between the cameras 1318 and the probe 1312 and the length of the probe 1312, provide an optimal configuration to perform 2D / 3D measurements with the exemplary scanning system 1300, as will be further explained below.

[0325] In some embodiments, the distance between the camera (or cameras) and the probe is chosen in a way that when the camera is capturing a 2D image, the probe appears in the FOV of the camera.

[0326] In some embodiments, in order to provide a good user-experience to the user and easily reach the more distal teeth, the scanner height and width should be minimal. In some embodiments, in view of small dimensions of the scanner, the distance between the camera and the probe are minimal, or at least as small as possible without compromising with the technical requirements of the scanner. Additionally, the inventors have found that, if the distance between the camera and the probe is too small, the vertical resolution of the probe image, especially at the probe tip, may be too small and the pocket depth accuracy will not be adequate.

[0327] In some embodiments, tilting the camera toward the probe might also help to capture as much of the probe in the center of the FOV of the camera. In some embodiments, using two cameras from different sides of the probe while the distance from the probe is perpendicular to the handle axis can also help to see as much of the probe, for example, while the dental caregiver is probing the pocket depth. The reason behind this is that while the probe is in the pocket, the tooth is usually on one side of the probe. This happens because the pockets that are measured are on the lingual or facial areas of the teeth and normally (and specifically on the pre molar and molar teeth) the handle is held parallel to the jaw line (approximate as a straight line as seen in Figure 8). This causes that, when probing, usually the FOV (or most of the FOV) of one of the cameras will be blocked by a tooth and the probe will not be visible, which then will prevent to detect and measure the gums that cover the probe. In this case, the second camera will have free view (free FOV) between the camera and the probe and / or the gums covering the probe. While measuring the pockets on the other side of the tooth (lingual vs facial) or on the other side of the jaw (facial around 804 and facial around 802) different cameras can be used to get a view of the probe and perform the measurements of the pocket depth. In some embodiments, a potential advantage of using two cameras on two the opposite side of the probe, is that there potentially always be at least one camera that has line of the sight to the gums during the probing.In some embodiments, the device is a scanning system configured for measuring a plurality of dental features, comprises: a body having approximal end, a distal end and a longitudinal axis extending from the proximal end to the distal end; a handle on the proximal end; a head on the distal end; one or more cameras in the body and having a field of view (FOV) perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the body; the one or more cameras configured for capturing and / or measuring dental features using visible light imaging; at least one probe connected to the distal end and extending perpendicular to the longitudinal axis and into the FOV; at least one additional measurement component configured to measure at least one additional dental feature using other than visible light imaging. In some embodiments, the at least one additional measurement component is configured to capture and / or measure dental features using one or more of UV light, transillumination, fluorescence, enhancing optics, optical filters for the camera, optic fiber, IR light, US, near-infrared transillumination (NIRI / NIR), optical coherence tomography (OCT), hyperspectral imaging, Photoplethysmography (PPG), optical perfusion, structured light, 3D optical metrology, imaging / visualization of dedicated enhancing materials, chemical sensors. In some embodiments, the system is configured to measure dental feature is one or more of caries, pre-caries, plaque, calculus, demineralization, biofilm maturity, extrinsic stains, food debris, temporary deposits, healthy enamel, CEJ, gingival inflammatory status, oxygenation, vascular changes, enamel thickness, cracks, restoration interfaces, gingival blood flow, inflammation, healing responses, pulp vitality via blood flow, tooth geometry, gingival margins, wear, recession, volumetric changes over time, Volatile Sulfur Compounds (VSCs). In some embodiments, the probe is mounted on a removable adaptor; the adaptor configured to be mounted on the head. In some embodiments, the system further comprises one or more light projectors configured for projecting at least one light onto the FOV. In some embodiments, the scanning system is characterized by one or more of: a. a length of from 50mm to 200mm; b. a width of from 5mm to 50mm; c. a height of from 5mm to 50mm; d. a probe having a length of from 10mm to 30mm. In some embodiments, the scanning system comprises two cameras; and wherein the system is characterized by one or more of: a. a distance between the two cameras is from 3mm to 12mm; and b. a distance between each of the two cameras and the probe is from about 2mm to 5mm; c. a distance between the one or more light projectors and the one or more cameras is from 3mm to 20mm. In some embodiments, the one or more light projectors are configured for generating a depth image and / or a full 3D model. In some embodiments, the one or more light projectors are located at a place having an equal distance from each camera from the two cameras. In some embodiments, a combination of the distance between the two cameras, the distance between the two cameras and the probe and the length of the probe, provide an optimal configuration to perform 2D / 3D measurements. In some embodiments, the system further comprises at least one processorand / or circuitry. In some embodiments, the at least one processor and / or circuitry comprise instructions to perform the capturing and / or measuring dental features using one or more of the one or more cameras and the at least one additional measurement component. In some embodiments, the at least one processor and / or circuitry comprise instructions for generating a periodontal chart utilizing data from the captured and / or measured dental features. In some embodiments, the at least one processor and / or circuitry comprise instructions to integrate data from the captured and / or measured dental features. In some embodiments, the at least one processor and / or circuitry comprise instructions for providing data for generating a periodontal chart as disclosed herein elsewhere.

[0328] Exemplary scanning system with one camera

[0329] Referring now to Figure 13g showing a schematic representation of an exemplary scanning system with one camera, according to some embodiments of the invention. In some embodiments, the scanning system 1300 comprises one single camera 1318 in proximity to the probe 1312. In some embodiments, in this case, the scanning system 1300 is configured to do measurements only in 2D (contrary to the scanning system shown in Figure 13f that, since it comprises two cameras, can perform 3D stereoscopic measurements).

[0330] In some embodiments, the one camera 1318 is positioned in relation to the probe at any location, as schematically shown in Figure 13g. It should be understood that the positions of the camera 1318 shown in Figure 13g are just examples and shall not be limiting in any way.

[0331] In some embodiments, the distance between the one camera 1318 and the probe 1312 is from about 1mm to about 5mm, for example 1mm, 2mm, 3mm, 3.5mm, 4mm, 5mm. In some embodiments, the distance between the one camera 1318 and the probe 1312 is more than 5mm.

[0332] In some embodiments, the camera is calibrated relative to the probe, such as the image of the probe coverage can be transformed into distance (for instance in mm) and used for estimation of the pocket depth.

[0333] Exemplary transformation applications and views

[0334] In some embodiments, the transformation tool used to convert 3D data into 2D views can be used in other applications, such as x-ray scans, MRI scans, IR scans, transillumination, fluorescence or US data. In some embodiments, the tool is modified to allow calculating panoramic view in MRI or alternatively align 3D optical scan to a panoramic x-ray scan. In some embodiments, the tool is further configured to superimpose data gained from x-ray (or other abovementioned modality) onto the 2D panoramic chart and to automatically add clinically relevant information gained from the x-ray onto a more intuitive view. In some embodiments, the view will allow the dental caregivers to highlight problems to the patient using the patient’s teeth.In some embodiments, aligning the teeth to a panoramic axis can also be useful to orthodontic applications. In some embodiments, the change in position and angle of the teeth can be easily calculated when the teeth before and after orthodontic treatment can be easily placed and aligned to the same axes.

[0335] In some embodiments, the panoramic view is used for a periodontal charting. For example, a new suggested coordinate system allows easily creating a 2D view of the panoramic layout of the facial and lingual views (as shown for example partially in Figure 9) and then mark on this chart the locations of pockets, bleeding, etc. In some embodiments, since the tool is based on a mathematical transformation, any data received from a scan in the original Cartesian coordinates can be placed correctly in the new panoramic coordinate system. Thus, for example, if bleeding is identified during an intraoral scan, it can be placed in or located onto the chart correctly.

[0336] In some embodiments, aside from being used for charting purposes, the panoramic coordinates have many other advantages and uses. For example, one possible use is teeth classification and numbering. In the panoramic coordinates, the teeth can be easily separated from one another by YZ planes. Possible locations of the separating planes can be first found by assuming height or width reduction at the areas between the teeth. In the new panoramic coordinate system, these measurements are easy to make as they neatly correspond to the measurements in X and Z axes. In some embodiments, the classification can be further helped by prior knowledge of the teeth nominal sizes easily measured in the new coordinate system (for example - tooth width is measured along the X axis in this new coordinate system, tooth height, along the Z axis). In some embodiments, a potential advantage of generating this knowledge is that it can potentially reduce errors which are the result of scan noise and other misleading elements.

[0337] In some embodiments, other uses of the panoramic view pertain to building a database of teeth for clinical or insurance purposes, tracking records, simplification of database and / or research purposes. Having all the teeth aligned to the same coordinate system can ease separating them and comparing them to similar teeth in a database. Thus, a database like that can be used to train an Al model to help with teeth classification or be used to identify abnormalities in each tooth.

[0338] Exemplary populating data into a 2D panoramic periodontal chart

[0339] In some embodiments, after the generation of the 2D panoramic view, the view is used to chart periodontal data into it.

[0340] Referring now to Figure 14a, showing a picture of an exemplary 2D panoramic periodontal chart, according to some embodiments of the invention.

[0341] In some embodiments, as explained above, the actual 3D scan on the teeth of a specific patient is transformed, from the 3D data, to a 2D panoramic view that actually shows the teeth of the patient.The 2D panoramic view is used in a dedicated periodontal chart into which relevant medical data is inserted, either manually by the dental caregivers (or any other dedicate personnel) or automatically while performing measurements using for example any one of the systems shown in Figures 10, 11, 12, 13a-f, or system as described in US9,454,846, US 10,966,614, US 11,612,461 and US20230190109A1, which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0342] In some embodiments, exemplary medical data are one or more of: pocket depths; bleeding areas on probing; gum recession measurement; cemento-enamel junction (CEJ) location; clinical attachment loss (CAL) determination; bone loss and bone supporting level (bone loss can be determined by using data from any X-ray sources like bitewings, Orto-radial periapical, CT, panoramic; the data is implemented in the 2D panoramic chart manually or automatically, optionally by Al integration); tooth mobility (3 levels: 0-1 mm, 1+mm horizontal, 1+ mm horizontal and vertical); furcation involvement (3 levels: 0-3mm, 3+mm, passing through the roots); mucogingival line; plaque and calculus; missing teeth; automated restoration charts; interproximal gap, optionally having a 100g resolution; abnormalities (tipping, rotations); damage to the teeth (for example missing parts); cracks in teeth; inflammation and / or swelling; loss of contact points between teeth, bleeding, teeth color or shade, optionally using known guides like VITA® shades.

[0343] Other parameters that can be marked on such a panoramic view, include, but are not limited to:

[0344] 1. Automated Restoration charting; In some embodiments, automated restoration charting is done by imaging the visible area of an implant inside the mouth and adding the position of the implant to the chart in the relevant position. In some embodiments, crowns are identified by identifying optical properties of the different elements in the mouth and identifying that the restoration optical properties are different than the natural teeth. In some embodiments the manufacturer name of the restoration is obtained using the optical properties and the name is inserted as well to the chart.

[0345] In some embodiments, data from radiographs that include the implants inside the bones (and are not visible in the optical scans are added to the chart, for example by identifying in the chart if a specific tooth has a crown underneath it. In some embodiments, the detection of the implant inside the radiographs is done using image processing and computer vision techniques, for example Al.

[0346] In some embodiments, a prepared tooth (for crown) is detected using optical properties or different 3D size and shape than normal teeth and the information is added to the chart to identify this prepared tooth.

[0347] 2. Automated tissue type evaluation. In some embodiments, automated tissue evaluation is done using color detection (for example, to differentiate from teeth and gums). In some embodiments, automated tissue evaluation is done using the fluorescence emission (for example, to differentiatebetween a teeth, crown and inlay). In some embodiments, automated tissue evaluation is done by using proximity to known mouth features (for example, gums are seen close to a tooth while cheek is further away). In some embodiments, 3D property of the tissue is detected, for example, the tongue might be moving in space with respect to the teeth while the gums are static with respect to the teeth.

[0348] 3. Decay - occlusal, cervical. By using optical DATA and / or DATA from an adapter attached to the scanner instead of the probe. In some embodiments, the adapter 1202 consists of an IR light that the imager of the scanner is configured to detect. In some embodiments, the IR light is projected onto the teeth and by imaging the scattered and / or transferred light and processing it, a detection decay inside the tooth can be measured.

[0349] In some embodiments UV or blue light is illuminated on the teeth and visible and / or IR light reflected by the features is captured and analyzed in order to detect green fluorescence for enamel regions and red fluorescence indicating presence of bacteria. In some embodiments, the bacteria presence is identified in the chart on the specific tooth.

[0350] In Figure 14, the following exemplary data is presented:

[0351] 1. 2D panoramic view of the actual teeth of the upper jaw of the patient 1402, frontal view 1404 and lingual view 1406.

[0352] 2. Missing tooth 1408.

[0353] 3. Location where bleeding was detected 1410.

[0354] 4. A real-time (or recording) view of the measurement of the pocket 1412.

[0355] 5. A schematic map of the teeth 1414 in the relevant jaw 1416 with the current tooth number 1418 highlighted and identification of implant 1420 and missing tooth 1422 are color coded on the map in the relevant tooth location.

[0356] 6. A heat map 1424 of the pocket depth around the tooth including the values 1426 of the pocket above normal. In some embodiments, a color coding can be used to visualize if the pocket depth is normal (green), little above normal (yellow) or problematic (red, and the actual value can also be displayed). In some embodiments, the pockets are measured at 3 points on each side (facial and lingual) as can be seen, for example, in tooth 15 where all 3 points are above normal (value 6 for each of the 3 - showing “666”). In some embodiments, a potential advantage of the heat map is that it potentially allows the viewers to understand that the pocket continues and the 3 values are just samples of the pocket at 3 specific points but the points are smoothly connected between them.

[0357] 7. Clinical parameters (like Mobility and Furcation) are also seen on the panoramic view (for example mobility 1428 of tooth 7 and Furcation 1430 on tooth 15).

[0358] Referring now to Figures 14b and 14c showing schematic representation of dedicated displays, according to some embodiments of the invention. In some embodiments, the data is collected andshown to the patient in a friendly manner. Figures 14b and 14c show exemplary displays showing the dental health data to the patient in a friendly manner.

[0359] Exemplary pocket depth measurement process

[0360] In some embodiments, a previously generated 3D model of the jaw is used to ease the detection and calculation of pocket depth, by comparing the pre-scan 3D model of the teeth (used in the generation of the 2D panoramic view) with the real-time images received during the depth pocket measurements done for example using a scanner as shown in Figures 13a-f.

[0361] Pocket depth is measured between the gums line and the deepest point a probe enters between the gums and the tooth. To calculate it, the gums line is first found using a combination of geometric characteristics of the gums line in 3D and the teeth / gums classification (as mentioned before - see explanations in relation to Figure 4). Then the depth of the pocket can be accurately measured regardless of the angle of probing using the 3D understanding of the scene that includes the tooth, gums and probe. The pocket can then be marked in the exact location in the panoramic view, allowing easy identification of the tooth and location on the tooth.

[0362] Exemplary methods of measuring pocket depth

[0363] In some embodiments, pocket depth is measured using one or more of the following methods: 1. 3D flow; 2. 2D direct pocket depth; and / or 3. 3D direct pocket depth.

[0364] In some embodiments, one, two or all three methods are performed, and the results are unified into one set of measurements, which is inserted into the 2D panoramic chart.

[0365] Referring now to Figure 15, showing a flowchart comparing the different methods of measuring pocket depth, according to some embodiments of the invention.

[0366] In some embodiments, the measurement of the pocket depth is done with one camera. In some embodiments, the measurement of the pocket depth is done with two cameras. In some embodiments, a potential advantage of using two cameras is that at least one camera will have a field of view of the probe / tooth / gum / other marker, which are required for the measurement of the pocket depth. In some embodiments, the measurement of the pocket depth is done with one or more light projectors (for example structured light projector) together with one or more cameras.

[0367] In some embodiments, an exemplary method of measuring pocket depth by 3D flow comprises one or more of the following actions:

[0368] 1. Finding the gums line 1502; In some embodiments, this is done as mentioned above using the different colors of the gums and teeth, 3D understanding of the gums position with respect to the teeth and / or understanding that the probe is covered with gums; In some embodiments, optionally, a pre-scan 1528 is performed before finding the gums line. In some embodiments, this is done forexample by an intra oral scanner with or without a probe. In some embodiments, an existing 3D model of the patient mouth from a previous scan is used;

[0369] In some embodiments, the gums line are found in real-time while scanning;

[0370] 2. Probing the pocket 1504; In some embodiments, this is done manually by the caregiver by inserting the probe that is attached to the scanner to the deepest spot between a tooth and a gum at different places around the tooth (for example, 3 in the lingual side and 3 in the facial side of the tooth);

[0371] 3. Calculating the depth of the image 1506; In some embodiments, this is done using known depth reconstruction techniques like structed light using a light projector and a camera or stereo using two cameras. The depth image is calculated with respect to the axes of the camera (for example when distance from the camera is measured as Z axes);

[0372] 4. Matching a 3D location 1508; In some embodiments, this is done using known techniques to create 3D point cloud or mesh from different depth images while the camera is moving with respect to the element (for example the teeth and gums). In some embodiments, this is done using Iterative closest point (ICP) algorithm;

[0373] 5. Finding the pocket depth 1510; In some embodiments, this is done by knowing the position of the probe tip in the view or coordinate system of the camera, for example, by using axes set during a process of calibration and adding the probe tip to the 3D model created by the movement of the camera with respect to the scene (for example while the tip is not moving from its place at the bottom of the pocket). In some embodiments, the probe tip is moving while the camera is moving, but the tip is kept at the deepest places of the sulcus (i.e. closest to the root) inside the pocket (for example, while scanning around the tooth in small movements). After collecting all the tip points around all or part of the circumference of the tooth, an average or maximum depth can be calculated on one or two sides of each tooth, or use all the points of the pocket depth in that area to be used, for example, in the generation of the heat map representation of the pocket depth around the tooth, as mentioned above. In some embodiments, a force sensor is used to verify that a standard force is applied during the probing (e.g. 0.25N) and consequentially that the tip was at the deepest location of the sulcus, and that the pocket depth measurement is accurate. In some embodiments, only points that were detected as touching the deepest part of the pocket are used for average calculation.

[0374] In some embodiments, an exemplary method of measuring pocket depth by 2D direct pocket depth comprises one or more of the following actions:

[0375] 1. Optionally, performing a pre scan of the teeth 1512; In some embodiments, this is done for example by an intra oral scanner with or without a probe. In some embodiments, an existing 3D model of the patient mouth from a previous scan is used;2. Probing the pocket 1514; In some embodiments, this is done manually by a dental caregiver as mentioned above;

[0376] 3. Analyzing the video of (2) 1516; In some embodiments, this is done on each frame of the video that is received from the camera while probing. In some embodiments, this is done on a single image while the tip of the probe is at the deepest position in the pocket. In some embodiments, this is done on two or more images during the probing action and an average between the images is calculated and used as a result. In some embodiments, the analysis is performed by looking at known pixels in the 2D image where the fixed probe should appear and looking for probe coverage using color change of those pixels from probe color (for example grey) to gums pixels (for example red); In some embodiments, the minimum number of pixels is between 1 and 5 pixels;

[0377] 4. Finding the pocket depth 1518; In some embodiments, this is done using a pre-calibration of the probe position in the 2D image. In some embodiments, the calibration process comprises acquiring at least one image of the probe by at least one camera. Assuming that the probe (length, width, color and / or any other identifiable feature) is known, each location of the probe in the image can be mapped into distance from the probe tip along the probe itself. When the probe is covered by the gums, during the probing, the probe portion that is covered by gums in the image can be translated into a length from the tip to the seen part of the probe and, therefore, to a length of the pocket depth.

[0378] In some embodiments, the calibration is done using a known 3D model of the probe, and using the intrinsic and extrinsic calibration of at least one camera that allows estimation of the probe location and angle in 3D relative to the camera from the probe image. For example, as known, the camera parameters are divided into intrinsic and extrinsic parameters, each serving a distinct role in image formation and 3D reconstruction.

[0379] The intrinsic parameters define the internal characteristics of a camera, including how it projects 3D world points onto a 2D image plane. These parameters are specific to the camera itself and remain fixed unless the camera settings change. For instance: Focal length, Principal point (the optical center of the image) and distortion. Key Intrinsic Parameters are for example one or more of: Focal length (fx, fy): Determines how much the lens magnifies the image; Principal point (ex, cy): The optical center of the image, usually near the center of the sensor; Skew factor: Measures the nonperpendicularity between the x and y axes (often negligible in modem cameras); Lens distortion coefficients: Corrects for distortions like barrel or pincushion distortion.

[0380] The Extrinsic parameters define the position and orientation of the camera in the world coordinate system. They describe how the camera is placed relative to the probe and to additional camera. For example, key extrinsic parameters are one or more of: Rotation matrix (R): Describes the orientationof the camera relative to the world; and Translation vector (T): Defines the camera’s position in the world.

[0381] In some embodiments, the calibration is done using the known 3D model of the probe, and using the intrinsic and extrinsic calibration of at least two cameras that allows estimation of the probe location and angle in 3D relative to the at least two cameras from the probe images at the at least two cameras.

[0382] In some embodiments, an exemplary method of measuring pocket depth by 3D direct pocket depth comprises one or more of the following actions:

[0383] 1. Probing the pocket 1520; This is done manually by a dental caregiver as mentioned before; 2. Analyzing the video captured during probing the pocket 1522; In some embodiments, this is done on each frame of the video that is received from the camera while probing. In some embodiments, this is done on a single image while the tip of the probe is at the deepest position in the pocket. In some embodiments, this is done on two or more images during the probing step and an average between the images is calculated and used as a result. In some embodiments, the analyzing is performed by creating a depth image from a single 2D image using known depth generation techniques (For example structured light projector and a camera that is positioned few millimeters from it and a pre calibration that matches between the structured light that is being captured by the camera after hitting an object in the scene);

[0384] 5. Finding the pocket depth 1524; In some embodiments, this is done using the depth image that was created in the analysis of the video. Similar to the 2D direct option, the probe covering is detected using a pre-calibration that allows the detection of the covered part of the probe with the gums. The depth image that was created allows the pocket depth value to be more accurate because the depth understanding allows to calculate the 3D position of the probe with respect to the gums line. The pocket depth should be measured using a perpendicular probe to the gum line. While probing, the probe can be inserted at an angle causing the coverage of the probe to be longer than the actual pocket depth. The depth image allows the system to understand in relation to a 3D position of the gums line and\or the teeth and the camera position with respect to the device and to calculate the position of the probe with respect to the gums line and adjust the calculation of the pocket depth using the length of the covered probe by multiplying it by the COS of the angle between the probe line and the perpendicular line.

[0385] In some embodiments, the probe tip location is estimated in the 3D model of the teeth and / or the gums and the pocket depth is calculated by the shortest distance between the probe and the gums line. In some embodiments, the 3D model of the teeth and / or the gums is estimated from the pre-scan. In some embodiments, the 3D model of the teeth and / or the gums is estimated from former structuredlight frames anchor 2D images. In some embodiments, the 3D model of the teeth and / or the gums is estimated from structured light frames and\or 2D images at the deepest probing frames. In some embodiments, the deepest 3D tip location is estimated only after probing end the whole structured light frames and\or 2D images during probing.

[0386] In some embodiments, the pocket depth is estimated according to the probe tip location at the frame in which a given force is applied to probe (for instance 0.25N). In some embodiments, the force applied to the probe is estimated by having the probe fixed to the scanner body with a spring that allow vertical (i.e. parallel to the probe length dimension) movement and minimal lateral movements (for instance a metal leaf) with a known spring constant. In some embodiments, during the probing the probe vertical movement can be identified by processing the image of at least one camera and used for estimation of applied force. In some embodiments, when the given force is applied, the dental caregiver gets feedback (for instance audio or visual) and / or the pocket depth is calculated according to probe tip location and gums line as described.

[0387] In some embodiments, the results of the methods are merged 1526 into one set of results that are then inserted in the 2D panoramic chart. In some embodiments the results are the pockets depth estimations.

[0388] Exemplary generation of a 2D panoramic model of the teeth

[0389] In the following paragraphs, an exemplary method of generation of a 2D panoramic representation of the patient teeth which is used in a 2D panoramic chart will be provided. In some embodiments, the panoramic view is side view (for example, lingual or buccal). In some embodiments, the panoramic view is occlusal view. In some embodiments, the panoramic representation is generated by collecting 2D images of the patient teeth along the jaw lingual, buccal and / or occlusal, and / or parts thereof, and stitching the images to generate a panoramic view of the patient teeth. In some embodiments, the clinical data is then placed along this panoramic view at the correct tooth using tracking information or other data which allows identifying the correct placement of the information.

[0390] Referring now to Figure 16, showing a flowchart of an exemplary method of generating a 2D panoramic model, according to some embodiments of the invention. In some embodiments, the generation of a panoramic layout of the teeth is based on information from different sources.

[0391] In some embodiments, a set of 2D images of the teeth is collected (1602), for example from a video taken by the scanner. In some embodiments, the images saved are chosen using smart parameters such as, but not limited to, location, lighting or angle with respect to the teeth photographed.In some embodiments, optionally, the camera used for taking the images is calibrated and its optical parameters (e.g. intrinsic and\or extrinsic parameters) are used to help identify images position and placement. In some embodiments the location of each image along the jaw is identified by using the camera’s optical parameters overlayed by a generic 3D jaw, or a jaw arc, or by tracking the movement of the camera by using features on the teeth. In some embodiments, the camera properties allow building a rudimentary 3D model of the jaw using the 2D images alone. In some embodiments, a model like that may not be accurate 3D representation of the jaw but will allow using tools described in previous sections. In some embodiments, the tracking of the movement of the camera is done using segmentation of the teeth in the image and identifying the tooth in each image. The stitching can be done by some or any code using generic features or features specific for teeth. Some optical adjustment may be used to enhance image quality or appearance.

[0392] In some embodiments, the system includes an Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU). In some embodiments the IMU is used for tracking the location and or the angle of the scanner. In some embodiments, the IMU angular information is used for correcting the geometric perspective of said images to provide a better and / or correct looking panoramic view.

[0393] In some embodiments, optionally, additional information is generated and / or collected (1604) and then added to the 3D scan, for example, from MRI imagery, X-ray images, IR images and US data. In some embodiments, the additional information may vary from 2D images to 3D data of visible dental areas such as teeth to under layers as jawbone images, sub-gingival imagery, gum details of inner parts of a tooth using IR (for example NIR) light scattering.

[0394] In some embodiments, all the data is then merged into the 2D panoramic model 1606.

[0395] Exemplary transformation of the 2D panoramic model into a 2D panoramic chart Referring now to Figure 17, showing a flowchart of an exemplary method of transforming a 2D panoramic model into a 2D panoramic chart, according to some embodiments of the invention. In some embodiments, following the collection of the data, one or more of the following actions are performed:

[0396] 1. Analyzing the 2D data (1702), for example, by means of image processing, segmentation, Al and tracking data to extract clinical status, detect dental problems, etc.

[0397] 2. Generating a basic panoramic view (1704).

[0398] 3. Calculating and synchronizing patient tooth location to 2D image (1706). This can be done, for example, by tracking the camera location while taking the 2D images or by other means. In some embodiments, the result of the calculation is used to overlay clinical information on the right location in the 2D panoramic view.4. Superimposing the results of the analysis done in (1702) and the basic panoramic view (1708). In some embodiments, superimposing allows us to show an image of the jaw that comprises one or more of a color overlay, markings indicating clinical status indications and / or severity of clinical status.

[0399] 5. Generating an interactive 2D panoramic chart (1710) of the jaw presenting clinical data on a spread jaw image. In some embodiments, the view is configured to allow the dental caregivers to review a specific dental area and / or specific tooth. In some embodiments the data is presented in one or more tabular view, an image, a video and 3D format. In some embodiments, two or more 2D panoramic views of the same jaw are presented simultaneously in the 2D panoramic chart, for example buccal and lingual views or occlusal and facial views.

[0400] In some embodiments, optionally, the 2D panoramic chart is generated in real-time while performing a dental scan and / or other measurement (like pocket depth measurements). In some embodiments, data is added to the 2D panoramic chart in real time. For example, bleeding at specific location while the probe is touching the gums on that area.

[0401] In some embodiments, the 2D panoramic chart is merged with a standard periodontal chart where the tables of the periodontal charts are the same, but the schematic view of the teeth is replaced with the 2D panoramic view. In some embodiments the periodontal table is being filled in real-time during the pocket depth measurements.

[0402] In some embodiments, the periodontal information obtained with periodontal scanner as described above, is shown in a standard periodontal chart. In some embodiments, the periodontal information is sent automatically to the dental Practice Management Software (PMS) for the dental records. In some embodiments, the periodontal information is used by a dedicated software for clinical diagnostics, such as gums disease. In some embodiments, the clinical diagnostics is used by a dedicated software for providing suggestions and / or recommendations on a required treatment.

[0403] In some embodiments, the periodontal information is sent by a dedicated software to patient dental insurance companies for treatment approval. In some embodiments, the software is configured to identify images with clinical significance (such as bleeding on probing, rescission, plaque, etc.) by means of computer vision (such as ML). In some embodiments, the images can be shown to the patient for improving patient education and case acceptance. In some embodiments, the images are sent by the software to the patient dental insurance companies for treatment approval.

[0404] Referring now to Figure 18 showing a flowchart of an exemplary general method of transforming a 3D teeth model into a 2D panoramic chart, according to some embodiments of the invention. In some embodiments, a general method of transforming a 3D model of the teeth to a 2D panoramic chart comprises one or more of the exemplary methods as disclosed herein. In someembodiments, a general method of transforming a 3D model of the teeth to a 2D panoramic chart comprises one or more of the following actions:

[0405] 1. Generating a 3D model of said teeth (1802), which comprises:

[0406] a. Generating and / or collecting a 3D model of said teeth (1804);

[0407] b. Generating and / or collecting 2D color images (1806);

[0408] c. Generating and / or collecting additional data (1808);

[0409] d. Merging data from (1806) and (1808) into said 3D model (1810).

[0410] 2. Transforming the 3D model into a 2D panoramic view (1812), which comprises:

[0411] e. Analyzing 3D model and / or 2D model data from an acquired 3D model (1814); f. Generating a basic 2D panoramic view from said 3D model (1816);

[0412] g. Calculating a transformation from said 3D model to said basic 2D panoramic view (1818), which comprises:

[0413] i. Performing teeth segmentation (1820);

[0414] ii. Aligning the jaw to a predetermined plane (1822);

[0415] iii. Fitting a parameterized curve to said teeth, thereby generating a curve coordinates (1824);

[0416] iv. Transforming said curve coordinates from Cartesian to non-linear coordinates (1826);

[0417] h. Superimposing results from said analyzing with said generated basic 2D panoramic view (1828);

[0418] 3. Generating a 2D panoramic chart from (1828).

[0419] Referring now to Figure 19 showing a flowchart of an exemplary general method of transforming a set of 2D teeth images into a 2D panoramic chart, according to some embodiments of the invention. In some embodiments, a general method of transforming a set of 2D images of the teeth to a 2D panoramic chart comprises one or more of the exemplary methods as disclosed herein. In some embodiments, a general method of transforming a set of 2D images of the teeth to a 2D panoramic chart comprises one or more of the following actions:

[0420] 1. Capturing a set of 2D images of said teeth (1902), by scanning at least one camera along the arch, which comprises:

[0421] a. Generating and / or collecting a set of 2D images of said teeth (1904);

[0422] b. Generating and / or collecting additional data (1906);

[0423] c. Merging data from (1904) and (1906) into said 2D panoramic chart (1908).

[0424] General informationIn some embodiments, probing of the pockets is performed at the same time as the first scanning of the teeth.

[0425] In some embodiments, probing of the pockets is performed at a later time than the first scanning of the teeth, and the information from the first scan is used for the pocket depth measurements, for example, by identifying the teeth during the probing with the teeth previously scanned.

[0426] In some embodiments, the probe is used to detect the gums, for example, when the gums cover the probe, the system is configured to detect this covering of the probe and identify the object covering the probe as gums.

[0427] In some embodiments, movement of the probe is used to identify the CEJ. In some embodiments, the sudden change in the movement of the probe is detected and processed to mark the position of the CEJ in relation to the teeth and / or the gums and / or the lower part of the pocket. In some embodiments, for example, the device comprises a camera and the system is calibrated to know the exact location of the tip of the probe in the 2D / 3D image. In some embodiments, then, the system is configured to measure the location of the gums in relation to a feature of the tooth (for example the top most part of the tooth as scanned), and the feature of the tooth is measured to be at a specific distance from the camera, and the probe tip was calibrated to a known place with respect to the camera and then, the system is configured to calculate the pocket depth.

[0428] In some embodiments, the distance between the CEJ and bottom pocket is also measured. This data is interesting since it allows the evaluation of the clinical attachment level (CAL). In some embodiments, these calculations are possible since the location of CEJ is estimated by analysis of the tooth image or by sensing the movement of the probe whilst being inserted and the change in the Z profile of the teeth at the CEJ point is detected from the probe position.

[0429] In some embodiments, gingival recession is evaluated using the distance between the CEJ and the gums.

[0430] In some embodiments, bleeding is assessed while probing, before probing and after probing. In some embodiments, during the probing process one or more of the following are measured / recorded: the time from touching (probing) to bleeding is measured, color detection is performed (to identify the red color of the blood for example), and the data is sent to the chart to be visualized (for example using a red circle). In some embodiments, also sound is generated (for example saying “bleeding detected”). In some embodiments, there is monitoring of the bleeding to assess whether a newly detected bleeding is from a previous location (and the blood is just moving around) or it is a new bleeding.In some embodiments, the device is configured to measure force applied to the probe. In some embodiments, the system comprises a feedback mechanism (audio / light) that send signals to the user, for example showing that the user is using the right amount of force, too much force, not enough force, while looking at the movements of the probe as a whole.

[0431] In some embodiments, the 2D panoramic view chart comprises several modes of view, according to the relevant target of people. For example, the system is configured to have three distinct dedicated views of the 2D panoramic view chart, one for the dental caregivers, one for the patient and one for the paying entity (payer / insurance).

[0432] In some embodiments, data can be inserted to the panoramic view chart using voice recognition. In some embodiments, the dental caregivers (or another user of the scanning system) can add information to the chart by saying it to a microphone placed for example on the scanning device and / or on the computer that is being used to view the panoramic view. In some embodiments, the data is inserted to the right position in the chart because the system identified the position of the probe inside the jaw using one of the techniques mentioned above. In some embodiments, additional charting information is incorporated through extra input peripherals, such as buttons on the scanner, or a foot pedal.

[0433] Exemplary uses of the collected data

[0434] In some embodiments, the plurality of data collected by the different system is unified under one patient chart, and can be used in plurality of ways. For example, this includes but is not limited to: diagnosis and monitoring of periodontal disease, treatment planning, systematic use of clarifications and educational tools for increasing treatment acceptance rates, surgical and restorative dental procedures, orthodontic assessments, periodontal conditions related to implant planning, systemic health risk prediction, insurance claim support, pharmaceutical trials, Al-driven predictive modeling, and public health surveillance. In some embodiments, the systems are configured to provide and / or enable for secure storage, encryption, and integration of periodontal data into electronic health record (EHR) systems and dental practice management systems (PMS).

[0435] In some embodiments, an exemplary use includes using automated periodontal data as well as additional obtained information as described before to determine and support periodontal disease staging and grading. In some embodiments, this comprises the steps of collecting probing depth, bleeding on probing, gingival recession, and clinical attachment level data from an automated probe. In some embodiments, optionally, the use comprise using data from other resources like Al X-ray analyses. In some embodiments, the data is analyzed using standardized or dedicated algorithms to classify the patient according to established staging and grading guidelines (e.g., AAP / EFP). In some embodiments, a potential advantage this use is that it potentially ensures reproducibility byminimizing operator bias and potentially allows integration with patient records for long-term monitoring. In some embodiments, the system comprises predictive analytics software used to evaluate the likelihood of progression, enabling clinicians to tailor treatment intervals and interventions. In some embodiments, this supports evidence-based treatment decisions and facilitates more consistent communication across providers.

[0436] In some embodiments, another exemplary use includes planning and executing dental procedures, including scaling and root planning, osseous surgery, guided tissue regeneration, mucogingival surgery, crown lengthening, implant planning, and peri-implantitis management. In some embodiments, detailed pocket depth and inflammation measurements are used to guide the selection of appropriate procedures. In some embodiments, the system is configured to provide individual recommendations. For example, patients with generalized pockets over 5mm may be recommended for scaling and root planning, including the interval recommendations between the recalls. In some embodiments, persistent deep defects may indicate surgical options to be employed on the patient. In some embodiments, implant planning uses periodontal measurements to evaluate adjacent tooth teeth health and bone support, reducing surgical risk. In some embodiments, crown lengthening decisions incorporate biologic width measurements. In some embodiments, peri-implantitis management is supported by monitoring pocket depth changes around implants. In some embodiments, the system is configured to utilize automated data to ensure consistent baseline and follow-up evaluations.

[0437] In some embodiments, another exemplary use includes integrating periodontal measurements into systemic disease management protocols, including diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and pregnancy care. In some embodiments, the use comprises establishing interfaces between dental measurement devices and medical EHR systems. In some embodiments, periodontal inflammation data is transmitted to primary care providers and specialists, where it is correlated with systemic biomarkers such as HbAlc for diabetes, CRP for systemic inflammatory conditions, for cardiovascular health, and pregnancy-related complications. In some embodiments, by including periodontal parameters, healthcare providers can more comprehensively evaluate the inflammatory burden. In some embodiments, this integration supports interdisciplinary care and helps in tailoring systemic disease management plans. In some embodiments, this enables bidirectional alerts, where high-risk patients may trigger dental referrals and vice versa.

[0438] In some embodiments, another exemplary use includes supporting insurance claim submission and risk scoring using automated periodontal data. In some embodiments, data is directly integrated into practice management software (PMS) and insurance claim systems. In some embodiments, objective measurements are linked to specific CDT / CPT procedure codes (e.g., SRP, periodontalmaintenance). In some embodiments, the data reduces disputes by providing verifiable evidence for claims. In some embodiments, risk scoring systems incorporate longitudinal periodontal records to adjust premiums or predict healthcare costs. In some embodiments, this allows automated populationlevel audits to ensure compliance and identify fraud. In some embodiments, integration with blockchain or secure ledger systems may further improve data integrity and transparency for insurers and providers.

[0439] In some embodiments, another exemplary use includes pharmaceutical research using periodontal data as a biomarker in clinical trials. In some embodiments, the automated periodontal measurements are employed as objective trial endpoints in drug development. For example, antiinflammatory or biologic therapies may demonstrate efficacy by reducing bleeding on probing or pocket depth. In some embodiments, automated data collection reduces inter-operator variability, increasing trial reliability. In some embodiments, longitudinal datasets allow precise monitoring of drug response at the tissue level. In some embodiments, the method enables regulatory submission of periodontal outcomes as validated surrogate endpoints. In some embodiments, the data may also reveal adverse effects such as drug-induced gingival overgrowth, providing early safety signals. In some embodiments, pharmaceutical companies may use this method to accelerate research timelines and improve outcome robustness. In some embodiments, the soft tissues in the mouth are one of the fastest-affected tissues due to their massive blood supply and high cell division rate.

[0440] In some embodiments, another exemplary use is using periodontal data in population health surveillance, forensic identification, and actuarial science. In some embodiments, de-identified periodontal datasets are aggregated at the population level. In some embodiments, health authorities may use the data to track prevalence and trends in periodontal disease, linking oral health with socioeconomic and geographic variables. In some embodiments, forensic scientists may use detailed periodontal records, including recession and teeth mobility patterns, to assist in human identification. In some embodiments, actuarial models incorporate periodontal data into long-term health risk assessments, influencing life insurance underwriting and public health resource allocation. In some embodiments, the method supports both individualized and population-level decision-making across disciplines.

[0441] In some embodiments, another exemplary use includes utilizing secure systems for storing and encrypting periodontal data while enabling interoperability with EHR and PMS systems. In some embodiments, this addresses data security and interoperability In some embodiments, automated periodontal data is encrypted at the capture and transmission stages. In some embodiments, the system employs role-based access controls to ensure compliance with HIPAA and GDPR requirements. In some embodiments, interoperability modules translate periodontal data into standardized formats(e.g., HL7, FHIR) for seamless integration with medical and dental records. In some embodiments, blockchain or distributed ledger technologies may be used to maintain tamper-proof audit trails. In some embodiments, the system balances patient privacy with accessibility, enabling clinicians and insurers to access verified data while maintaining strict confidentiality. Secure APIs allow third-party developers to build compliant applications.

[0442] As used herein with reference to quantity or value, the term “about” means “within ± 10 % of’.

[0443] The terms “comprises”, “comprising”, “includes”, “including”, “has”, “having” and their conjugates mean “including but not limited to”.

[0444] The term “consisting of’ means “including and limited to”.

[0445] The term “consisting essentially of’ means that the composition, method or structure may include additional ingredients, steps and / or parts, but only if the additional ingredients, steps and / or parts do not materially alter the basic and novel characteristics of the claimed composition, method or structure.

[0446] As used herein, the singular forms “a”, “an” and “the” include plural references unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. For example, the term “a compound” or “at least one compound” may include a plurality of compounds, including mixtures thereof.

[0447] Throughout this application, embodiments of this invention may be presented with reference to a range format. It should be understood that the description in range format is merely for convenience and brevity and should not be construed as an inflexible limitation on the scope of the invention. Accordingly, the description of a range should be considered to have specifically disclosed all the possible subranges as well as individual numerical values within that range. For example, description of a range such as “from 1 to 6” should be considered to have specifically disclosed subranges such as “from 1 to 3”, “from 1 to 4”, “from 1 to 5”, “from 2 to 4”, “from 2 to 6”, “from 3 to 6”, etc.; as well as individual numbers within that range, for example, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6. This applies regardless of the breadth of the range.

[0448] Whenever a numerical range is indicated herein (for example “10-15”, “10 to 15”, or any pair of numbers linked by these another such range indication), it is meant to include any number (fractional or integral) within the indicated range limits, including the range limits, unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. The phrases “range / ranging / ranges between” a first indicate number and a second indicate number and “range / ranging / ranges from” a first indicate number “to”, “up to”, “until” or “through” (or another such range-indicating term) a second indicate number are used herein interchangeably and are meant to include the first and second indicated numbers and all the fractional and integral numbers therebetween.Unless otherwise indicated, numbers used herein and any number ranges based thereon are approximations within the accuracy of reasonable measurement and rounding errors as understood by persons skilled in the art

[0449] As used herein the term “method” refers to manners, means, techniques and procedures for accomplishing a given task including, but not limited to, those manners, means, techniques and procedures either known to, or readily developed from known manners, means, techniques and procedures by practitioners of the chemical, pharmacological, biological, biochemical and medical arts.

[0450] As used herein, the term “treating” includes abrogating, substantially inhibiting, slowing or reversing the progression of a condition, substantially ameliorating clinical or aesthetical symptoms of a condition or substantially preventing the appearance of clinical or aesthetical symptoms of a condition.

[0451] It is appreciated that certain features of the invention, which are, for clarity, described in the context of separate embodiments, may also be provided in combination in a single embodiment. Conversely, various features of the invention, which are, for brevity, described in the context of a single embodiment, may also be provided separately or in any suitable subcombination or as suitable in any other described embodiment of the invention. Certain features described in the context of various embodiments are not to be considered essential features of those embodiments, unless the embodiment is inoperative without those elements.

[0452] Although the invention has been described in conjunction with specific embodiments thereof, it is evident that many alternatives, modifications and variations will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Accordingly, it is intended to embrace all such alternatives, modifications and variations that fall within the spirit and broad scope of the appended claims.

[0453] It is the intent of the applicant(s) that all publications, patents and patent applications referred to in this specification are to be incorporated in their entirety by reference into the specification, as if each individual publication, patent or patent application was specifically and individually noted when referenced that it is to be incorporated herein by reference. In addition, citation or identification of any reference in this application shall not be construed as an admission that such reference is available as prior art to the present invention. To the extent that section headings are used, they should not be construed as necessarily limiting. In addition, any priority document(s) of this application is / are hereby incorporated herein by reference in its / their entirety.

Claims

WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:

1. A periodontal chart, comprising:a. at least one 2D panoramic view of a jaw of a patient; said 2D panoramic view being generated from a 2D scan and / or a 3D scan of said jaw of said patient;b. at least one medical information, superimposed on said 2D panoramic view.

2. The periodontal chart according to claim 1, wherein a source of said at least one medical information is one or more of:a. an intraoral camera;b. MRI imagery;c. X-ray images;d. IR images;e. US data;f. transillumination data;g. fluorescence data;h. light scattering data; andi. sub-gingival 3D information.

3. The periodontal chart according to claim 1, wherein said at least one medical information comprises one or more of pocket depths; bleeding areas; gum recession measurement; cementoenamel junction (CEJ) locations; clinical attachment loss (CAL) determinations; bone loss and bone supporting level; tooth mobility; furcation involvement; mucogingival line; plaque and calculus; missing teeth; restoration data; interproximal gap, abnormalities; damage to the teeth; cracks in teeth; inflammation and / or swelling; loss of contact points between teeth; teeth color or shade; and decay.

4. The periodontal chart according to claim 1, wherein said periodontal chart further comprises one or more of a tabular view of a plurality of teeth, at least one image of said plurality of teeth, at least one video of said plurality of teeth, at least one 2D format of said plurality of teeth and at least one 3D format of said plurality of teeth.

5. The periodontal chart according to claim 1, wherein said periodontal chart comprises two 2D panoramic views of said jaw of said patient, selected from the group consisting of: lingual view, occlusal view and facial view, buccal view and labial view.

6. A scanning system configured for measuring a plurality of dental features, comprising: a. a body having a proximal end, a distal end and a longitudinal axis extending from said proximal end to said distal end;b. a handle on said proximal end;c. a head on said distal end;d. one or more cameras in said body and having a field of view (FOV) perpendicular to said longitudinal axis of said body; said one or more cameras configured for capturing and / or measuring dental features using visible light imaging;e. at least one probe connected to said distal end and extending perpendicular to said longitudinal axis and into said FOV ;f. at least one additional measurement component configured to measure at least one additional dental feature using other than visible light imaging.

7. The scanning system according to claim 6, wherein said at least one additional measurement component is configured to capture and / or measure dental features using one or more of UV light, transillumination, fluorescence, enhancing optics, optical filters for the camera, optic fiber, IR light, US, near-infrared transillumination (NIRI / NIR), optical coherence tomography (OCT), hyperspectral imaging, Photoplethysmography (PPG), optical perfusion, structured light, 3D optical metrology, imaging / visualization of dedicated enhancing materials, chemical sensors.

8. The scanning system according to claim 6, wherein said system is configured to measure dental feature is one or more of caries, pre-caries, plaque, calculus, demineralization, biofilm maturity, extrinsic stains, food debris, temporary deposits, healthy enamel, CEJ, gingival inflammatory status, oxygenation, vascular changes, enamel thickness, cracks, restoration interfaces, gingival blood flow, inflammation, healing responses, pulp vitality via blood flow, tooth geometry, gingival margins, wear, recession, volumetric changes over time, Volatile Sulfur Compounds (VSCs).

9. The scanning system according to claim 6, wherein said probe is mounted on a removable adaptor; said adaptor configured to be mounted on said head.

10. The scanning system according to claim 6, further comprising one or more light projectors configured for projecting at least one light onto said FOV.

11. The scanning system according to claim 6, wherein said scanning system is characterized by one or more of:a. a length of from 50mm to 200mm;b. a width of from 5mm to 50mm;c. a height of from 5mm to 50mm;d. a probe having a length of from 10mm to 30mm.

12. The scanning system according to claim 10, wherein said scanning system comprises two cameras; and wherein the system is characterized by one or more of:a. a distance between said two cameras is from 3 mm to 12mm; andb. a distance between each of said two cameras and said probe is from about 2mm to 5mm; c. a distance between said one or more light projectors and said one or more cameras is from 3 mm to 20mm.

13. The scanning system according to claim 10, wherein said one or more light projectors are configured for generating a depth image and / or a full 3D model.

14. The scanning system according to claim 10, wherein said one or more light projectors are located at a place having an equal distance from each camera from said two cameras.

15. The scanning system according to claim 12, wherein a combination of said distance between said two cameras, said distance between said two cameras and said probe and said length of said probe, provide an optimal configuration to perform 2D / 3D measurements.

16. The scanning system according to claim 6, further comprising at least one processor and / or circuitry.

17. The scanning system according to claim 16, wherein said at least one processor and / or circuitry comprise instructions to perform said capturing and / or measuring dental features using one or more of said one or more cameras and said at least one additional measurement component.

18. The scanning system according to claim 16, wherein said at least one processor and / or circuitry comprise instructions for generating a periodontal chart utilizing data from said captured and / or measured dental features.

19. The scanning system according to claim 16, wherein said at least one processor and / or circuitry comprise instructions to integrate data from said captured and / or measured dental features.

20. The scanning system according to claim 16, wherein said at least one processor and / or circuitry comprise instructions for providing data for generating a periodontal chart according to claim 1.

21. A method of generating a 2D panoramic chart, comprising:a. generating a 3D model of teeth in a jaw, comprising:i. generating and / or collecting a 3D model of teeth;ii. generating and / or collecting 2D color images;iii. generating and / or collecting additional data;iv. merging all data from (ii) and (iii) into said 3D model;b. transforming the 3D model into a 2D panoramic view, comprising:v. analyzing 3D model and / or 2D model data from an acquired 3D model;vi. generating a basic 2D panoramic view from said 3D model; said generating comprises calculating a transformation from said 3D model to said basic 2D panoramic view; said calculating a transformation comprises:A. performing teeth segmentation;B. aligning the jaw to a predetermined plane;C. fitting a parameterized curve to said teeth, thereby generating a curve coordinates;D. transforming said curve coordinates from Cartesian to non-linear coordinatesvii. superimposing results from said analyzing with said generated basic 2D panoramic view;c. generating a 2D panoramic chart from said (vii).

22. The method according to claim 21, wherein a source of data for said generating a 3D model of said teeth is one or more of:a. an intraoral camera;b. MRI imagery;c. X-ray images;d. IR images;e. US data;f. transillumination data;g. fluorescence data;h. light scattering data; andi. sub-gingival 3D information.

23. The method according to claim 21, wherein said analyzing 3D model and / or 2D model comprises using one or more of image processing, 3D-shape analysis and multiple 3D-bodies colocation.

24. The method according to claim 21, wherein said analyzing 3D model and / or 2D model comprises one or more of extracting clinical status and detecting dental problems.

25. The method according to claim 21, wherein said method is performed in real-time while scanning said teeth and / or while performing other measurements.

26. The method according to claim 21, wherein said additional data comprises one or more of pocket depths; bleeding areas; gum recession measurement; cemento-enamel junction (CEJ) locations; clinical attachment loss (CAL) determinations; bone loss and bone supporting level; tooth mobility; furcation involvement; mucogingival line; plaque and calculus; missing teeth; restoration data; interproximal gap, abnormalities; damage to the teeth; cracks in teeth; inflammation and / or swelling; loss of contact points between teeth; teeth color or shade; and decay.

27. A method of generating a teeth panoramic view, comprising:a. generating a 3D model of said teeth;b. transforming the 3D model into a 2D panoramic view.

28. A method of generating a generating a 3D model of teeth, comprising:a. generating and / or collecting a 3D model of said teeth;b. generating and / or collecting 2D color images;c. generating and / or collecting additional data;d. merging all data from (b) and (c) into said 3D model.

29. A method of transforming a 3D model of teeth into a 2D panoramic chart, comprising:a. analyzing 3D model and / or 2D model data from an acquired 3D model;b. generating a basic 2D panoramic view from said 3D model; said generating comprises calculating a transformation from said 3D model to said basic 2D panoramic view;c. superimposing results from said analyzing with said generated basic 2D panoramic view; d. generating a 2D panoramic chart from said (c).

30. A method of generating a 2D panoramic view of teeth in a jaw from a 3D teeth model, comprising:a. generating and / or collecting a 3D model of said teeth;b. performing teeth segmentation;c. aligning said jaw to a predetermined plane;d. fitting a parameterized curve to said teeth, thereby generating a curve coordinates;e. transforming said curve coordinates from Cartesian to non-linear coordinates.

31. A method for performing a 3D flow pocket depth measurement, comprising:a. finding a gum line;b. inserting a probe into a pocket;c. capturing an image of said probe in said pocket;d. calculating a depth of at least one feature in said image;e. calculating a pocket depth based on a result of said calculating a depth of at least one feature in said image.

32. A method for performing a 2D direct pocket depth measurement, comprising:a. acquiring a pre-scan of teeth;b. inserting a probe into a pocket;c. capturing a video of said probe in said pocket;d. analyzing said video;e. calculating a pocket depth based on a result of analyzing said video.

33. A method for performing a 3D direct pocket depth measurement, comprising:a. inserting a probe into a pocket;b. capturing a video of said probe in said pocket;c. analyzing said video;d. calculating a pocket depth based on a result of analyzing said video.

34. A method for performing pocket depth measurement, comprising:a. performing a first pocket depth measurement;b. performing a second pocket depth measurement;c. performing a third pocket depth measurement;d. merging the results of the first, second and third measurements.

35. The method according to claim 34, wherein said first pocket depth measurement is a 3D flow pocket depth measurement and comprises:a. finding a gum line;b. inserting a probe into a pocket;c. capturing an image of said probe in said pocket;d. calculating a depth of at least one feature in said image;e. calculating a pocket depth based on a result of said calculating a depth of at least one feature in said image.

36. The method according to claim 34, wherein said second pocket depth is a 2D direct pocket depth measurement and comprises:a. acquiring a pre-scan of teeth;b. inserting a probe into a pocket;c. capturing a video of said probe in said pocket;d. analyzing said video;e. calculating a pocket depth based on a result of analyzing said video.

37. The method according to claim 34, wherein said third pocket depth is a 3D direct pocket depth measurement and comprises:a. inserting a probe into a pocket;b. capturing a video of said probe in said pocket;c. analyzing said video;d. calculating a pocket depth based on a result of analyzing said video.

38. A scanning system, comprising:a. a body having a proximal end, a distal end and a longitudinal axis extending from said proximal end to said distal end;b. a handle on said proximal end;c. a head on said distal end;d. one camera in said body and having a field of view (FOV) perpendicular to said longitudinal axis of said body;e. at least one probe connected to said distal end and extending perpendicular to said longitudinal axis and into said FOV.

39. The scanning system according to claim 38, wherein said probe is mounted on a removable adaptor; said adaptor configured to be mounted on said head.

40. The scanning system according to claim 38, further comprising one or more light projectors configured for projecting at least one light onto said FOV.

41. The scanning system according to claim 38, further comprising one or more mirrors configured for directing said FOV from said longitudinal axis to said perpendicular to said longitudinal axis.

42. The scanning system according to claim 38, wherein said scanning system comprises a length of from 50mm to 200mm.

43. The scanning system according to claim 38, wherein said scanning system comprises a width of from 5mm to 50mm.

44. The scanning system according to claim 38, wherein said scanning system comprises a height of from 5mm to 50mm.

45. The scanning system according to claim 38, wherein said probe comprises a length of from 10mm to 30mm.

46. The scanning system according to claim 38, wherein a distance between said camera and said probe is from about 1mm to 5mm.

47. The scanning system according to claim 40, wherein said one or more light projectors are configured for generating a depth image and / or a full 3D model.

48. The scanning system according to claim 40, wherein a distance between said one or more light projectors and said camera is from 3mm to 20mm.

49. The scanning system according to claim 40, wherein said one or more projectors are located at a place having an equal distance from said camera.

50. The scanning system according to claim 38, wherein a combination of said distance between said camera and said probe and said length of said probe, provide an optimal configuration to perform 2D measurements.

51. A method for transforming a set of 2D teeth images into a 2D panoramic chart, comprising capturing a set of 2D images of said teeth by scanning at least one camera along an arch, said capturing comprises:a. Generating and / or collecting a set of 2D images of said teeth;b. Generating and / or collecting additional data; andc. Merging data from (a) and (b) into said 2D panoramic chart.

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