Extraoral X-ray Scan for Occlusal Dental Casts
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current dental x-ray imaging methods for obtaining volumetric images of teeth are cumbersome, inaccurate, and require multiple steps for occlusion registration of upper and lower teeth models, often necessitating the use of landmarks or third components, which complicates the process.
Innovation Solution
A method involving 3D x-ray scanning of physical dental arch models in occlusal relationship to generate 3D image data, constructing aligned maxillary and mandibular models, and using intersection zones to separate and close the models, eliminating the need for landmarks and simplifying the registration process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional CBCT scanning methods are used to obtain volumetric images of teeth, then 3D reconstruction of dentition can be achieved, but the process becomes cumbersome and requires multiple steps for occlusion registration
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the upper and lower dental arches into a single scanning field, capturing both arches in one CBCT scan rather than requiring separate scans. This merging approach eliminates the need for complex multi-step registration processes while maintaining accurate occlusion relationships, as both arches are captured in their natural positioned relative to each other
2Reliability
If multiple separate scans are performed for upper and lower jaws, then complete dental models can be obtained, but the procedure becomes time-consuming and complex
Solution Approach 1:
The imaging system is configured to scan both the upper and lower dental arches simultaneously within a single CBCT scanning procedure. This combined scanning approach reduces the total scanning time and eliminates the need for multiple separate scanning sessions while ensuring complete dental model data is captured for both arches
Solution Approach 2:
The patent positions the dental arches in their natural occlusal relationship before scanning begins, ensuring that the occlusion registration is already established in the physical domain. This preliminary positioning eliminates the need for time-consuming post-processing registration steps, as the arches are already in their correct relative positions when the scan is acquired
3Measurement precision
If landmark-based registration methods are used, then occlusion alignment can be achieved, but the process requires additional components and steps
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes the inherent anatomical features and natural occlusal relationships of the dental arches themselves to establish registration, rather than requiring external landmarks or third components. The arches' own structural characteristics and their natural positioned relative to each other provide the registration information needed, making the system self-sufficient and eliminating additional registration 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 provides a cheaper, rapid, and accurate assessment of orthodontic conditions by directly scanning teeth in occlusion, reducing the complexity and increasing the accuracy of occlusion registration, allowing for precise virtual treatment planning.
Implementation Method 1
A method for 3-dimensionally x-ray scanning the physical positive models of the dental arches
Implementation Method 2
obtaining a series of images by directing and detecting radiation that is directed through the patient at different angles
Data Source
AI summary
An extra-oral imaging apparatus can obtain a 3D volume image of a portion of a head of a patient. Exemplary dental apparatus and/or method embodiments can provide 3D mesh models of surfaces of the maxillary dental arch and the mandibular dental arch in a 3D volume image obtained from a single extraoral scan of physical casts of the maxillary dental arch and the mandibular dental arch in an occlusal relationship. In one exemplary embodiment, a first 3D mesh model of surfaces of the maxillary dental arch model and a second 3D mesh model of surfaces of the mandibular dental arch model are generated. Then, contact areas where the first 3D mesh model and the second 3D mesh model intersect are removed to separate the first and second mesh models. In another exemplary embodiment, the first 3D mesh model and the second 3D mesh model can be aligned.