Three dimensional evaluation of lip position changes after orthodontic appliance removal.

摘要

Objectives. To develop a reproducible method of superimposing 3-D images for measuring soft tissue change over time and to use this method to document changes in lip position after orthodontic appliance removal. Methods. 3-D photographs of 50 subjects were made in repose and maximum intercuspation before and after orthodontic appliance removal using the 3dMD RTM stereocamera. For reliability assessment, 2 photographs were repeated for 15 patients. Images were registered on stable areas and surface-to-surface measurements were made for defined landmarks. Results. Mean changes were below the level of clinical significance (set at 1.5mm). However, 51% percent and 18% of subjects experienced changes greater than 1.5mm at the commissures and lower lip, respectively. Conclusions. The use of serial 3-D photographs is a reliable method of documenting soft tissue changes. Soft tissue changes following appliance removal are not clinically significant; however, there is great individual variability. Supported by the AAOF and the SAO.