3D Intraoral Scanner Fluorescence Mapping for Caries Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Intraoral 3D scanners face limitations in capturing large fields of view due to the size of probe elements, requiring stitching of sub-scans, which can result in reduced visibility of cariogenic regions and inaccuracies in dental topography mapping.
Innovation Solution
A 3D scanner system that uses a single image sensor to record both probe light reflected from teeth and fluorescence emitted from fluorescent materials, allowing for the creation of a combined digital 3D representation that enhances the visibility of cariogenic regions by mapping fluorescence onto the tooth surface topography.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If multiple sub-scans are stitched to capture large fields of view, then the coverage area is improved, but the visibility of cariogenic regions and accuracy of topography mapping deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple types of optical information (fluorescence, reflectance, and topography data) into a single integrated digital representation. This merging allows cariogenic regions to be visualized with enhanced contrast against the tooth surface, resolving the visibility issue that occurs when using separate stitching approaches for different imaging modes.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses a single intraoral scanner device that performs multiple functions: capturing fluorescence images, reflectance images, and topography data, then integrating them into one comprehensive digital model. This multi-functional approach eliminates the need for multiple specialized devices and ensures consistent spatial registration across all data types.
2Difficulty of detecting and measuring
If fluorescence imaging is used to detect cariogenic regions, then the detection capability is improved, but the integration with 3D topography mapping becomes complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges fluorescence imaging capability with existing 3D scanning hardware into a single integrated system. By combining the fluorescence detector with the topography mapping components, the system achieves enhanced caries detection without requiring separate complex systems, thus managing integration complexity while improving detection capability.
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
Improves the detection and visualization of cariogenic regions by providing a clear, accurate digital 3D representation of teeth, aiding dentists in identifying caries and other dental issues with enhanced precision and visibility.
Implementation Method 1
an illumination unit capable of providing probe light for illuminating the teeth, where said probe light comprises light at a first wavelength which is capable of exciting a fluorescent material of the teeth
Implementation Method 2
an image sensor for recording images of light received from the illuminated teeth, where said image sensor is capable of detecting fluorescence emitted from said fluorescent material when this is excited by light at said first wavelength
Data Source
AI summary
A 3D scanner system for detecting and/or visualizing cariogenic regions in teeth based on fluorescence emitted from the teeth, the 3D scanner system including data processing means configured for mapping a representation of fluorescence emitted from the teeth onto the corresponding portion of a digital 3D representation of the teeth to provide a combined digital 3D representation.