Orthodontic Aligner Evaluation via Digital Image Analysis
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing methods for evaluating the shape of orthodontic aligners and adapting orthodontic treatments are inefficient, requiring frequent orthodontist visits, additional impressions or scans, and resulting in increased costs and patient burden, as they rely on conventional visual inspections and manual aligner production.
Innovation Solution
A method that involves acquiring two-dimensional images of the patient's teeth and aligner, comparing tooth outlines, and determining scores to assess aligner suitability, which can be implemented using simple photographs, reducing the need for orthodontist appointments and enabling remote evaluation through a computer program.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional visual inspection methods are used to evaluate aligner suitability, then orthodontist expertise can be applied, but the number of required orthodontist appointments increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a digital copy of the patient's dentition through 3D scanning and generates virtual images that replicate what the orthodontist would see during an in-person examination. This digital replica allows remote evaluation without requiring the patient's physical presence, thereby reducing appointment frequency while maintaining evaluation accuracy
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a computer program as an intermediary that processes images, compares tooth outlines, and generates evaluation scores. This intermediary system performs the initial assessment work, allowing the orthodontist to review only cases that require professional judgment, thus reducing the number of appointments needed
2Reliability
If frequent orthodontist check-ups are conducted to ensure treatment appropriateness, then treatment quality can be monitored, but patient burden and costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables patients to perform self-assessment by capturing images of their own dentition and aligners using their mobile devices. The automated image analysis system then evaluates the treatment progress without requiring orthodontist intervention for every check-up, significantly reducing patient burden while maintaining treatment quality through automated monitoring
Solution Approach 2:
The system provides automated feedback through image analysis and scoring that indicates whether the aligner is fitting properly. This continuous feedback mechanism allows for quality monitoring without frequent professional visits, as the system automatically detects issues and can alert the orthodontist when intervention is needed
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple aligners are manufactured to accommodate treatment adjustments, then treatment adaptability is improved, but manufacturing costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary evaluation of aligner suitability using digital image analysis before manufacturing additional aligners. By assessing treatment progress and aligner fit remotely, the system determines whether treatment adjustments are actually needed, preventing unnecessary manufacturing of additional aligners while maintaining treatment adaptability when genuinely required
Data Source
AI summary
A method for evaluating the shape of an orthodontic aligner worn by a patient. Acquisition of at least one two-dimensional image of teeth of the patient as “updated image.” At least one updated image as “aligner image,” at least partially representing the aligner in a service position. At least one updated image as “dentition image,” representing the teeth. If the dentition image is different from the aligner image, conversion of the dentition image so that it represents the teeth as seen under the acquisition conditions used during the acquisition of the aligner image. Determination, for each of a plurality of teeth represented on the dentition and aligner images, of interior and exterior tooth outlines representing the outline of the free end of the tooth on the dentition and aligner images. Comparison of the interior and exterior tooth outlines, followed by determination of at least one score according to the comparison.