Orthodontic Aligner Evaluation via Mobile Image Analysis
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing methods for evaluating the shape of orthodontic aligners are inefficient, requiring frequent orthodontist visits, leading to patient burden, potential aesthetic issues, and increased costs, as they rely on conventional impressions or scans and manual manufacturing of aligners, which can be unsuitable.
Innovation Solution
A method involving the acquisition of two-dimensional images of the teeth and aligner, with image processing to compare tooth outlines, determine scores, and assess aligner suitability, allowing for remote evaluation and reduced orthodontist appointments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional methods using impressions or scans and manual manufacturing of aligners are used, then orthodontist can evaluate aligner shape, but frequent orthodontist visits are required leading to patient burden and increased costs
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables patients to perform self-evaluation of aligner fit using their own mobile devices to capture images and videos, eliminating the need for frequent professional orthodontist visits while maintaining evaluation accuracy through automated image processing and analysis algorithms
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual orthodontist evaluation with an automated computer-based image analysis system that uses processing algorithms to assess aligner fit and tooth position, substituting mechanical/professional evaluation with automated digital analysis
2Reliability
If manual evaluation methods are used, then orthodontist can assess aligner suitability, but the process is time-consuming and requires patient travel
Solution Approach 1:
Patients can conduct treatment monitoring and evaluation from their own locations using personal mobile devices, eliminating the need to travel to orthodontist offices while maintaining reliable assessment of treatment progress and aligner suitability
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses universal mobile devices that patients already possess, eliminating the need for specialized orthodontist office equipment, and enables multiple functions including image capture, video recording, and automated analysis all through a single portable platform
3Reliability
If conventional aligner manufacturing process is used, then aligners can be produced, but the number of aligners manufactured increases beyond initial plan due to treatment adjustments
Solution Approach 1:
The system provides continuous feedback on aligner fit and treatment progress through automated image analysis, allowing early detection of issues and adjustments before they require complete remanufacturing of aligner series, thereby reducing waste and improving manufacturing efficiency
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary evaluation of aligner fit and treatment progress at home before orthodontist visits, allowing potential issues to be identified and addressed proactively, reducing the need for reactive remanufacturing of aligners
Data Source
AI summary
A method for evaluating an orthodontic appliance. Acquisition of a two-dimensional “appliance image” of teeth at least partially representing the orthodontic appliance in a service position. Acquisition of a two-dimensional “dentition image” of the teeth. If a determination of comparable dental and appliance attributes is not possible from the appliance image and from the dentition image, respectively, conversion of the appliance image and/or of the dentition image so that the appliance image be compatible with the dentition image. Determination of dental and appliance attributes relative to the shape of the tooth represented on the dentition image and relative to the shape of the orthodontic appliance on the appliance image. Comparison of the dental and appliance attributes, followed by determination of at least one score. At least one image is acquired with a mobile phone.