Computing transformation in an irregular teeth set

The research evaluates the feasibility of assisting orthodontists to treat irregularities in teeth by computing the transformations to move each tooth to its ideal position. The intent is to help orthodontists craft a precise and specific treatment plan for each patient. Computation of the transformations is achieved through the use of a reverse engineering package, Geomagic Studio, and a three dimensional modeling program, Rhino3D. The inputs for finding the transformation are the patient's teeth mold and dental arch templates. A 3D laser scanner is used to form a point cloud data representation of the patient's teeth mold. Geomagic is used to construct a Non-Uniform Rational B-Spline surface for the mold. Rhino3D is used to manipulate this surface and compute the required transformations using the scripting platform, Rhinoscript, in Rhino3D. The steps in the process and the algorithms developed in Rhinoscript to compute the transformations are discussed. Three case studies are presented to demonstrate the process.