JMIR Publications

ABSTRACT

Background:

Investigating the safe range of orthodontic tooth movement is crucial for the stability of the oral and maxillofacial system following orthodontic treatment. Clear aligner orthodontic technology utilizes a goal-oriented pre-treatment model, yet its effects on periodontal hard tissues during orthodontic treatment remain uncertain. By combining the cervical and root portions obtained from Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) with the crown portions acquired from digital intraoral scanning (IOS) data, a fusion model can be constructed that meets the needs for precision and safety in tooth movement.

Objective:

This study aims to construct a three-dimensional (3D) fusion model based on artificial intelligence (AI) software that matches CBCT and intraoral scanning data using the Andrews six element standard. The model will be utilized to assess the three-dimensional effects of clear aligners on tooth movement, to provide a reference for the design of pre-treatment target positions.

Methods:

A total of 136 cases were analyzed, comparing pre-treatment models (simulation models) and post-treatment models (fusion models) to evaluate the effects of gender, age stage, and treatment method on tooth movement following clear aligner therapy.

Results:

No statistically significant differences were observed in total scores across the gender, age stage, and treatment method groups. However, individual item scores revealed that adolescents exhibited smaller differences in Upper Core Discrepancy (UCD), Upper Anterior teeth Width discrepancy (UAW), Upper Canine Width discrepancy (UCW) and Upper Molar Width discrepancy (UMW) compared to adults, but greater differences in Upper incisors Antero-Posterior discrepancy (UAP) and Lower Spee curve Deep discrepancy (LSD) (P<.001). In extraction cases, smaller differences were noted in LSD, UAW, and UCW, while more significant differences were observed in UMW compared to non-extraction cases (P<.001).

Conclusions:

The 3D fusion model provides a reliable clinical reference for target position design and treatment outcome evaluation in clear aligner systems. The construction and application of 3D fusion model in clear aligner orthodontics represent a significant leap forward, offering substantial clinical benefits while establishing a new standard for precision, personalization, and evidence-based treatment planning in the field. Clinical Trial: This clinical Trial approval from the Medical Ethics Committee (Approval number： KYKQ2022MEC0046)