Application of visualization technology of multimode data fusion in occlusal rehabilitation.

Abstract

This study aimed to present a method for multi-modal medical data fusion that could be used for increased vertical dimension of occlusion (VDO) and occlusal rehabilitation in a digital manner, thus facilitating the process of clinical diagnosis and restoration. With the aid of a computer software, a visual and operable four-dimensional virtual dental patient was created by data fusion of intraoral scan, extra-oral face scan, cone-beam computed tomography, and dynamic occlusal movement trace to conduct a systematical review of the occlusion and temporomandibular joint of the virtual patient. This approach could be used for increased VDO on the basis of the aesthetics of anterior teeth and the restoration space of posterior teeth. It allowed jaw reconstruction and occlusal rehabilitation with fixed prosthesis by using computer-aided design and manufacturing (CAD/CAM) devices. A visual and operable four-dimensional virtual dental patient was created by integrating the method for multimodal medical data fusion with CAD/CAM devices, thus making the process of occlusal rehabilitation with fixed prosthesis safer and more convenient than before. With the method for multimodal medical data fusion, the presented application enables the fusion of different data sources of the patient at the same time and space by creating a virtual patient. It is useful for showing the function and anatomical structure of the patient's oral and maxillofacial system in a visual and convenient manner, thus providing a powerful tool in the process of clinical diagnosis and restoration.