3D Jaw Relation Determination Using Radio-Opaque Markers
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Determining the three-dimensional relation between the upper and lower jaws, particularly in edentulous patients, is challenging due to the need for accurate vertical distance consideration and the limitations of conventional methods in accurately capturing TMJ positions using panoramic X-ray images.
Innovation Solution
A bite registration apparatus comprising a bite frame with radio-opaque markers and a bite shaped member of configurable shapes, which allows for precise registration of bite impressions using 2D and 3D panoramic X-ray images, 3D scanned images, and head surface images, enabling accurate determination of the 3D relation between the upper and lower jaws with respect to the temporomandibular joints.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional panoramic X-ray imaging is used to determine TMJ positions, then the imaging process is simple and quick, but the horizontal dimension accuracy is poor due to distortion and magnification
Solution Approach 1:
Radio-opaque markers are introduced as intermediary objects that can be clearly visualized in panoramic X-ray images. These markers serve as reference points that bridge the gap between the distorted panoramic image and the actual anatomical positions, enabling accurate determination of TMJ locations despite the inherent distortion of panoramic imaging
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transitions from relying solely on 2D panoramic images to incorporating 3D scanned images of the bite impression. This dimensional enhancement allows for accurate horizontal measurements by using the radio-opaque markers in three-dimensional space, thereby correcting the distortion inherent in 2D panoramic projections
2Measurement precision
If customized bite shaped members with specific vertical distances are used for edentulous patients, then the vertical distance measurement is accurate, but the device complexity and fabrication requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The bite frame is designed with adjustable components that allow the vertical distance between the upper and lower bite surfaces to be modified according to the patient's specific needs. This adjustability eliminates the need to fabricate completely different bite frames for different vertical distances, thereby maintaining ease of manufacture while achieving measurement precision
Solution Approach 2:
The bite frame is designed as a universal device that can accommodate different vertical distances and patient requirements through adjustment mechanisms. Rather than creating specialized bite frames for each patient, the universal design allows one frame to serve multiple functions and adapt to various clinical scenarios
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple types of bite frames and mesh elements are created for different oral cavity sizes, then the adaptability to different patients is improved, but the device complexity and inventory requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The bite frame incorporates adjustable components that allow customization to different oral cavity sizes and shapes. Rather than maintaining inventory of multiple fixed-size frames, the adjustable design enables a single frame type to adapt dynamically to various patient anatomies, reducing device complexity while maintaining versatility
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
The apparatus provides a precise and accurate method for determining the 3D relation between the upper and lower jaws, correcting horizontal distortions in panoramic images, and facilitating the creation of customized dental prosthetics and appliances that account for individual oral cavity dimensions.
Implementation Method 1
A bite registration apparatus comprising a bite frame with radio-opaque markers... enabling accurate determination of the 3D relation between the upper and lower jaws with respect to the temporomandibular joints using 2D and 3D panoramic X-ray images
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus including a bite frame and a bite shaped member is provided. The bite frame includes one or more arcuate frame elements defining an opening for accommodating a mesh element or the bite shaped member that receives a bite registration material for registering a bite impression. The bite shaped member has a geometrical body structure, upper and lower channels of configurable shapes, and upper and lower windows. The upper and lower windows are separated by a space for receiving and allowing flow of the bite registration material to register a vertical distance between the upper and lower jaws. An image processing system operably connected to the apparatus determines the three-dimensional relation between the upper and lower jaws with reference to temporomandibular joints using panoramic images of the upper and lower jaws, reference points provided by radio-opaque markers, three-dimensional scanned images of the bite impression, and three-dimensional head surface images.