Accuracy of measurements made on digital and study models (A comparative study)

Abstract

Background: Dental study models are a cornerstone in the armamentarium used by
orthodontists to both classify malocclusion and formulate treatment plans. Recent
technological advances have allowed the generation of digital dental models that
can be saved, digitized, measured with software tools, viewed threedimensionally,
and retrieved with a computer. Prearrangement with Cadent
Company of USA performed this service.
Objectives: The purpose of this study was to test the accuracy of digital
measurements made on digital models made by OrthoCAD system and compare it
with manual measurements made on study models by the use of vernier caliper.
Methods: Twenty students (8 males and 12 females) with normal Class I occlusion
were selected from 175 students aged 16-25 years with certain criteria. Double
impressions for each dental arch were taken to each student with the bite
registration. The impressions were immediately poured with stone and with the
collaboration of Cadent Company (Fairview, NJ, USA), twenty sets of stone
models were sent with the bite registrations to them for digital processing and the
other twenty stone models remain for manual measurements. Such an arrangement
is for the first time in collaboration with an American institute. Tooth size, arch
widths, arch length, space available, and the space required were done on both
digital and study models.
Results: This study revealed statistically non–significant differences with high strong
correlation between the two methods of measurements.
Conclusions: Digital models are an accurate, efficient, and easy to use alternative to
stone models. With the current technology and future applications, digital models
have potential to advance the practice of orthodontics, with the advantage of
reducing the time necessary for measurements. OrthoCAD could revolutionize the
way in which study models are utilized, stored, viewed, and managed