Methods for managing 3-dimensional volumes

Using a single cone-beam computed tomography scan to obtain full occlusal details, with the mandible in centric relation and maximum intercuspation

“…Taking the CBCT image with the patient's mouth open facilitates the manual separation of the maxillary dentition from the mandibular dentition and even makes the automatic separation feasible. 1,2 This procedure is helpful if the CBCT scan is captured for dental measurements only, because it results in a deformed, unrealistic, and immeasurable skeletal and facial soft tissue mask. 9 On the other hand, imaging the patient in occlusion is a rational demand to imitate the patient's clinical occlusal situation.…”

“…1 There is a consensus of opinion that the major shortcoming and the key for accurate 3D virtual planning in orthodontic and orthognathic surgical planning is the accurate visualization of the occlusal details in the 3D model of the patient's virtual volume. [1][2][3][4][5] The challenge to balance these 2 opposing demands and use the advantages of both techniques led to the invention of new protocols. A double CBCT scan protocol was proposed by Swennen et al 3 to generate a skull model with accurate occlusal and intercuspation data.…”

“…Yet, CBCT imaging entails some challenging limitations: limited resolution, inaccurate representation of dental tissues, and blending that occurs between the maxillary and mandibular teeth when the CBCT scan is captured with the patient in occlusion or complete intercuspation (Fig 1). [1][2][3][4][5][6] This blending complicates the automated separation of the maxillary from the mandibular teeth and makes the manual separation awkward with inaccurate occlusal anatomy and details. 2 Several attempts, published in the literature, have offerred solutions for this problem.…”

“…[1][2][3][4][5][6] This blending complicates the automated separation of the maxillary from the mandibular teeth and makes the manual separation awkward with inaccurate occlusal anatomy and details. 2 Several attempts, published in the literature, have offerred solutions for this problem. Inserting 3 miniscrews in the maxillary bone before 3-dimensional (3D) acquisition and model production as reference points for integration of the maxillary and mandibular plaster models into the skull volume was suggested.…”

Accuracy of a Method to Monitor Root Position Using a 3D Digital Crown/Root Model during Orthodontic Treatments

“…Since the effective radiation dose from CBCT is significantly higher compared to conventional radiographs, routine usage of CBCT is not recommended during orthodontic treatments as a substitute for conventional radiographs, especially when the population for orthodontic treatment is relatively young [ 18 , 19 ]. Furthermore, CBCT rendering of teeth lacks a precise occlusal surface and accurate interdigitation [ 20 ]. Artifacts from metal restorations and orthodontic brackets can also result in discrepancies [ 21 ].…”