International Journal of Medicine and Pharmacy

Individualized Spherical Occlusion Surfaces Restoration from DICOM data
Algimantas Šurna, Rimas Šurna

Abstract
Objectives. The aim of this study was to develop an algorithm to recover individualized spherical occlusion surfaces from patient radiological DICOM data and to restore structural elements of the chewing system damaged or lost due to disease, trauma, or improper prosthetics. Methods. Computer-aided design allows for a sufficiently accurate reproduction of the individualized spherical occlusion surface from patient temporomandibular and upper jaw CBCT data. Based on the intact and slightly age-varying guidelines of the solid structures of the chewing system, reliable features for the restoration of the patient's individual occlusal surface are found. Results. A key factor in the design of prosthesis and in the planning of orthognathic surgery parameters is the correct determination of the patient’s occlusion: the curvature and orientation of the occlusion surface, i.e., the radius of the occlusion sphere and its center coordinates. Conclusion. Improperly designed prosthesis (improper occlusal surface) causes serious damage to the temporomandibular joint and at the same time headaches, problematic occlusion, language defects, and serious psychological problems of the patient. This method restores the patient’s individualized spherical occlusion surface according to DICOM data and can be applied to dentists using remote dentistry.

Full Text: PDF     DOI: 10.15640/ijmp.v10n1a1