3D Root Canal Planning via Statistical Shape Models
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current 3D imaging technologies, such as CBCT and µCT, are not suitable for daily clinical use in root canal treatment planning due to insufficient image resolution, high radiation doses, and limited applicability, making it difficult to accurately plan and execute root canal treatments without exposing patients to unnecessary risks.
Innovation Solution
A computer-implemented method that creates a 3D model of a patient's tooth, including the pulp chamber and root canals, using a combination of 3D imaging data and 2D radiographs, allowing for patient-specific planning without radiation, by digitizing tooth impressions or performing intra-oral scans, and using a statistical shape model to generate accurate 3D models for root canal treatment simulation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If CBCT or μCT imaging is used to obtain 3D tooth data, then image resolution and anatomical detail are improved, but radiation dose increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a virtual 3D copy of the tooth using optical scanning or impression taking instead of using CBCT/μCT imaging. This copying approach provides sufficient anatomical detail for treatment planning without exposing the patient to high radiation doses, as the virtual model replicates the necessary tooth geometry and root canal morphology.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses inexpensive, non-radiation-based imaging methods such as optical scanning or traditional impressions to create 3D tooth models. These methods are comparable to disposable or temporary solutions that provide adequate information for treatment planning without the harmful effects of repeated high-dose radiation exposure.
2Measurement precision
If μCT imaging is used for research purposes, then detailed 3D root canal anatomy is obtained, but equipment availability and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates virtual 3D copies of teeth using widely available optical scanning equipment or traditional dental impressions, eliminating the need for specialized μCT research equipment. This approach makes detailed 3D anatomical assessment accessible in routine clinical settings without requiring expensive, unavailable machinery.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical μCT imaging system with optical scanning or impression-based digital modeling. This substitution uses accessible optical or mechanical impression technologies instead of complex μCT equipment, achieving similar 3D reconstruction capabilities with readily available tools.
3Reliability
If CBCT imaging is used for 3D tooth assessment, then diagnostic accuracy is improved, but image resolution for root canal details remains insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the tooth modeling process into multiple stages: first creating an overall 3D tooth model using optical scanning or impressions, then specifically focusing on root canal morphology through targeted digital reconstruction and statistical shape modeling. This segmentation allows detailed root canal assessment without relying on low-resolution CBCT images.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameters used for 3D reconstruction by employing high-resolution optical scanning or detailed impression data instead of CBCT imaging parameters. This parameter change enables precise measurement of root canal dimensions while maintaining overall diagnostic accuracy for treatment planning.
4Manufacturing precision
If statistical shape models are used to generate 3D tooth models, then treatment planning accuracy is improved, but data processing time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary actions by using pre-established statistical shape models that have been developed from large datasets of actual teeth. These pre-computed models can be quickly applied to individual patient data, providing accurate treatment planning information without requiring time-consuming processing of raw scanning or impression data from scratch.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses statistical shape models as pre-fabricated templates that can be rapidly copied and adapted to individual patient anatomy. This copying approach provides accurate treatment planning data quickly, as the computational work has already been performed during the development of the statistical models from population data.
Data Source
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AI summary
A three-dimensional computer model of the patient's tooth, including the pulp chamber and root canals, is created by combining at least one 2D grey value image of said tooth and/or surface information about at least part of the intra-orally visible part of the tooth with a statistical, parameterized shape model of each tooth type (upper or lower incisors, canines, pre-molars, molars) as the patient's tooth to be treated. This allows for planning and/or simulation of one or more root canal treatments on the 3D computer model of the patient's tooth and that the dentist or dental specialist is given qualitative and/or quantitative information by the system in order to aid in adequately analysing the risks related to performing the root canal treatment with the proposed or user-selected endodontic tools.