Measurement of the Depth of Spee's Curve using Digital 3D Dental Models

Abstract

Aim of our study is to consider a possibility of using 3D computer models for measurement the depth of curve of Spee. Curve of Spee is very important in diagnostics of orhtodontical patient. The structured-light three-dimensional (3D) scanner was used for scanning dental casts. The cusp tips of the molars, premolars, and incisors of the mandible were identified using digital 3D models and Rapidform 2006 software. The depth of the curve of Spee was evaluated by means of our computer software. Algorithm for depth of Spee's curve evaluation is presented. The dental casts of 15 subjects were scanned and measured to test the reliability of method contrasting with conventional manual measurement. The depth of Spee's curve was measured 7 times for every dental cast and repeatability of conventional and digital measurement methods was compared. Within a confidence interval of 95%, we could say that measurement results of depth of Spee's curve using two different methods don't differ more than 0.5 mm. Three-dimensional digital dental models is useful tool for analysis of depth of Spee's curve and treatment planning. Ill. 4, bibl. 11 (in English; abstracts in English and Lithuanian).

http://dx.doi.org/10.5755/j01.eee.109.3.170