Comparative Error Analysis of 3D-Modeling, -Printing and - Scanning Methods Used in Orthodontics

The use of additive manufacturing in dentistry has exponentially increased, with dental model construction being the most common use of the technology. [1] This requires knowledge of the precision of these models. This is especially important for images used in clinical settings. This project proposal aims to conduct a comparative error analysis of 3D modeling, 3D printing, and 3D scanning methods used in orthodontics to measure the accuracy of 3D images and models used in dentistry and jaw surgery. Anonymized patient images (without identifying information) will be used in the project. The scanned images will be processed to create 3D anatomical models, which will then be printed using a 3D printer. The generated anatomies will then be scanned with a 3D scanner to create a new 3D model. The two resulting models (image processing and scanning results) will be compared by superimposing their axes. This mapping will enable quantitative and qualitative error analysis.