Dental Mesh Bracket Removal via Curvature Segmentation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods for segmenting tooth structures from mesh images in dental applications are inaccurate and require significant human intervention, failing to distinguish tooth structures from gums and often necessitate multiple X-ray acquisitions, which expose patients to radiation, especially in orthodontic treatments involving brackets and braces.
Innovation Solution
A hybrid method for tooth segmentation and bracket removal that combines automated algorithms with operator interaction, using geometric primitives and curvature-based techniques to refine segmentation results, allowing for the generation of digital models without human intervention, and reconstructing tooth surfaces by removing bracket components from 3D dentition meshes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional segmentation methods are used on mesh images, then the process can be performed with basic tools, but the segmentation accuracy is poor and requires significant human intervention
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements automated segmentation algorithms that perform tooth-gum segmentation independently without requiring manual intervention. The system uses curvature analysis and geometric primitive fitting to automatically identify and separate tooth structures from gum tissue in mesh images, eliminating the need for operator involvement in the segmentation process while maintaining high accuracy
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical segmentation operations with computational algorithms. Instead of operators manually tracing and separating tooth boundaries, the system uses automated image processing techniques including curvature calculation, geometric primitive detection, and mesh analysis to perform segmentation computationally, thereby improving both accuracy and automation
2Loss of information
If multiple X-ray acquisitions are performed to obtain dentition data, then comprehensive tooth structure information can be obtained, but patient radiation exposure increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates accurate digital 3D copies of dentition structures from optical surface scans. These digital models replicate the external morphology and spatial relationships of teeth and gums without requiring additional X-ray exposure. The system processes optical scan data to generate virtual dentition models that preserve all necessary structural information for orthodontic assessment
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces optical surface scanning as an intermediary method between physical dentition and digital representation. Instead of directly using multiple X-rays to obtain structural information, the system uses optical scans as an intermediate step to capture surface geometry, which is then processed into comprehensive 3D models, thereby eliminating the need for repeated radiation exposure
3Loss of information
If brackets and braces are left on teeth during scanning, then the orthodontic appliances are captured in the model, but accurate tooth surface visualization is obscured
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the dentition model into distinct components: tooth structures, gum tissue, and orthodontic appliances. This segmentation allows the system to separately process and visualize different elements. The tooth surfaces are extracted and displayed independently from the brackets and braces, enabling clear visualization of tooth morphology while preserving the complete orthodontic setup in the overall model
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts and removes bracket and brace components from the tooth surface visualization. The system identifies orthodontic appliances in the scan data and separates them from the underlying tooth structures. This extraction allows the tooth surfaces to be visualized without obstruction from the appliances, while the appliances remain preserved in the complete digital model for comprehensive orthodontic documentation
Data Source
AI summary
Exemplary method and apparatus embodiments of this application can obtain a digital model of an individual intraoral dentition and perform tooth surface restoration after brace representation removal that includes wires and brackets.