3D Multicamera Dental Cast Scanning System

The fundamental factors in the diagnosis in the orthodontic treatment are the spacing condition, tooth size, arch form and its dimensions. Plaster model analysis is a time-consuming procedure. Dividers, calipers, and Boley gauges have provided the standart of measurement against which newer methods have been evaluated [1]. Various scanning techniques, including laser scans, structured light, destructive scans, computed tomography scans, magnetic resonance imaging, and ultrasound are now available for 3D reconstruction of anatomy [2]. Replacement of plaster orthodontic models with 3-dimensional (3D) computerized images can benefit orthodontics in the following areas [3]:  efficiency of having patient records instantly accessible on the computer screen vs retrieving plaster models from a storage area;  saving money on the monthly cost of storage space needed for the thousands of accumulated traditional plaster models;  accuracy, efficiency, and ease of measurement of tooth and arch sizes and dental crowding;  the ability to send virtual images anywhere in the world for instant referral or consultation as needed or for studies purposes. Studies involving dental casts can be performed with ease because computerized 3D wire-frame diagrams allow models to be cut, superimposed, and measured in the computer [4]. The purpose of this research is to compare the current gold-standard plaster model with the digital counterpart of model for the analysis of dental arch sizes. We present a desktop high accuracy device for measurement of dental arches by scanning dental casts.