Computer‐assisted simulations in orthodontic diagnosis and the application of a new cone beam X‐ray computed tomography

Abstract

Computational simulations which include three-dimensional (3-D) image processing and biomechanical calculations should provide useful information to our research and orthodontic clinic as a clinical tool defined as 'thinking'. In this review, 1) biomechanical simulations applied to predict the mandibular growth; 2) mathematical models of virtual bone cells and 3) 3-D images and solid model simulations for surgical planning are introduced. In biomechanical simulation, biting force, electromyographic (EMG) activity and cephalograms of 32 subjects were applied. Computational results of mathematical model were compared with actual bone growth in a rat. Three-dimensional image and solid model of 14 patients were utilized for their treatment planning. From the results, several concepts of our simulations were confirmed: 1) reaction forces generated by masticatory muscles at the condyle control the direction of mandibular growth; 2) some mathematical models have the possibility to describe the process of bone growth; 3) 3-D image processing software and solid models are necessary for diagnosis and planning of orthognathic surgery. We also believe that the orthodontists can more accurately predict the affects of surgical procedures and orthodontic tooth movement using the new cone beam X-ray computed tomography (CT) (CB MercuRay; Hitachi Medico Technology, Tokyo, Japan) and its advanced application software.

Morphological evaluation of the mandibular lingula using cone-beam computed tomography

“…Three--dimensional (3D) reconstructed images from CBCT are more reliable and accurate than 2D radiography of craniofacial structures for diagnosis, and allow multiple imaging post-processing protocols for better and more effective treatment planning and evaluation [3,10]. Thus, many investigators chose 3D analysis to evaluate mandibular morphology, especially the latest development of CBCT which could help to provide better image resolution, shorten acquisition time, reduce the radiation dose, and lower costs [14].…”

Development of Three-dimensional FE Modeling System from the Limited Cone Beam CT Images for Orthodontic Tipping Tooth Movement

“…However, these FE models were developed as general tooth models with an average size and shape of the crown and root. Subsequently, in a previous study, an automatic modeling system from CT image was developed for computer-aided diagnosis 15) . However, this system was used only for simulation to identify the density of alveolar bone for human growth, but not for stress analysis of the periodontium complex during orthodontic tooth movement.…”

Interdisciplinary Treatment of Aggressive Periodontitis: Three-Dimensional Cone-Beam X-Ray Computed Tomography Evaluation

“…Furthermore, computational simulations that include 3D image processing and biomechanical calculations show promise as useful tools for orthodontic research and assist in clinical decision-making (Maki et al, 2003).…”