Analysis of Root Resorption in Dentistry using Collaborative Tools & Strategies

Engineering diagnostic tools have become increasingly more sophisticated like computer tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), cone beam computer tomography (CBCT) and other imaging technology can now present patient data in many ways and with great clarity and accuracy. A strong software interface is needed to accept input from every brand of scanner to facilitate the selection of an anatomic structure visible in the medical images. Hence the purpose of this paper is to volumetrically evaluate root resorption during orthodontic treatment using MIMICS software and describe benefits of collaboration between two expertises. CBCT of 17 patients were taken pre-treatment (T1) and post levelling and aligning (T2) using KODAK 9000 machine. CBCT data were reconstructed with surface and volume rendering software (Mimics NV Belgium) and the volumetric images were modified to display the teeth from various orientations. Six anterior teeth were segmented and their roots isolated. Kruskal Wallis test was used to statistically evaluate root volume difference. The volume difference between two time intervals was statistically significant for all roots investigated (where significance value p < 0.05). The distal and palatal surfaces of lateral incisor, buccal surface of central incisor and distal surface of canine were more affected. The proposed work is first of its kind to analyse technically root resorption without extraction of teeth which enables a new quality of information sharing, collaboratively solving problem and integration of two different fields. Keywords––Root Resorption, Tools, Strategies, Mimics, Collaboration, Digital volumetric tomography