A novel computer-aided method for direct measurements and visualization of gingival margin changes.

Abstract

To introduce and validate a computer-aided method for direct measurements and visualization of gingival margin (GM) changes. The method consists of five main steps: digital model acquisition, superimposition, computer-aided GM detection, distance calculation between the GM curves, and visualization. The precision of the method was evaluated with repeatability and reproducibility analysis (n=78 teeth). The method's repeatability was evaluated by repeating the algorithm on the same digital models by two operators. The reproducibility was evaluated by repeating the algorithm on two consecutive digital models obtained with a scan-rescan process at the same time point on the same patient. For demonstration, the proposed method for direct measurements of GM changes was performed on patients who had undergone root coverage procedures and treatment of periodontal disease. Excellent repeatability was found for both intra- and inter-operator variability, that is, 0.00 mm, regarding computer-aided GM detection. The reproducibility of computer-aided GM detection evaluated on scan-rescan models was 0.10 mm. The presented method enables the evaluation of GM changes in a simple, precise, and comprehensive manner through non-invasive acquisition and superimposition of digital models.