Integrated 3D Dental Model for Pre-Procedure Bite Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current digital workflows for creating custom dental prosthetics face challenges in accurately assimilating pre-procedure bite records into design models, especially after extensive dental restoration, where post-procedure bite alignment often differs from the pre-procedure alignment.
Innovation Solution
A method involving 3D cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) scans to capture pre- and post-procedure jaw positions, followed by image registration and fusion to create a composite jaw structure model, combined with dental photogrammetry and intraoral scanning to generate an integrated 3D digital model that includes implant geometry and topography, ensuring accurate pre-procedure bite position assimilation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If physical molds of the patient's oral cavity are used to design dental prosthetics, then the design process is simple and straightforward, but the accuracy and precision of the digital model are insufficient for modern digital workflows
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a digital copy (3D model) of the physical oral cavity using intraoral scanning technology. The scanning probe captures geometric data of the teeth and oral structures, generating a precise digital replica that replaces traditional physical molds while maintaining measurement accuracy and enabling digital workflow integration
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical physical mold-making process with a digital scanning and modeling system. The intraoral scanner uses optical or electromagnetic fields to capture oral cavity geometry, substituting mechanical impression taking with a digital measurement system that provides higher precision and eliminates the need for physical casts
2Manufacturing precision
If only post-procedure jaw alignment data is used to design prosthetics, then the fabrication process is simplified, but the prosthetics do not accurately restore the patient's pre-procedure bite position
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges pre-procedure and post-procedure jaw alignment data into a single integrated 3D digital model. The system combines scan data from both time points, registering them through common anatomical landmarks to create a composite model that contains both the original bite position information and the current jaw alignment, enabling accurate prosthetic design that restores pre-procedure occlusion
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary data collection and integration by capturing both pre-procedure and post-procedure jaw alignment data before the actual prosthetic fabrication begins. This preliminary action of creating the integrated 3D model with both datasets allows the design process to reference the original bite position while accounting for current jaw relationships, ensuring accurate restoration without complicating subsequent fabrication steps
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This approach enables the design of custom dental prosthetics that better fit the patient's post-procedure jaw alignment, improving the accuracy and fit of the prosthetics by integrating pre- and post-procedure data into a single 3D model for precise fabrication.
Implementation Method 1
having a first 3D x-ray image of the patient's jaw while in pre-procedure jaw position. This 3D x-ray image may be acquired by performing cone beam computed tomography (CT) scanning of the patient
Implementation Method 2
To register the two sets of images, one or more bony alignment landmarks are selected on the first 3D x-ray image, along with the corresponding landmarks on the second 3D x-ray image. These landmarks may be selected manually or by an automated process. By registering the landmarks, the two sets of images are combined using any suitable image processing technique to create a composite jaw structure model
Data Source
AI summary
A method for a making a dental prosthesis for a patient. The method comprises acquiring a first 3D x-ray image of the patient’s jaw while in pre-procedure jaw position. The dental implant procedure is performed to install implant fixtures on the patient’s jaw. After the procedure, a second 3D x-ray image of the patient’s jaw is acquired. Bony landmarks are selected on the 3D x-ray images for registration and alignment of the two image datasets. This results in a composite jaw structure model. The method further comprises performing dental photogrammetry to create a 3D photogrammetric rendering of the implant abutments. The method further comprises performing intraoral scanning of the patient’s mouth with an intraoral scanning probe to create an intraoral topographic impression. The 3D photogrammetric rendering, the intraoral topographic impression, and the composite jaw structure model are combined to create an integrated 3D model of the patient’s mouth and jaw.


