Patent ID: 7442041
Filing Date: 2008-10-28
Classification: A61C,A61F,B33Y,G06T,G16H

Abstract:
1. A method of monitoring tooth wear, and gingival recession and erosion, comprising the steps of: in-vivo scanning a portion of the patient's dentition at a first point in time using a hand-held scanner; where in said portion of the patient's dentition comprises teeth and gingival tissue; obtaining a first three-dimensional virtual model of said portion of the patient's dentition at said first point in time; in-vivo scanning said portion of the patient's dentition at a second point in time using said hand-held scanner; where in said second point in time is later than said first point in time; obtaining a second three-dimensional virtual model of said portion of the patient's dentition at said second point in time; comparing said first and second virtual models to each other; and identifying, from said step of comparison, portions of said first three-dimensional virtual model that are missing from said second three-dimensional model; where in said portions missing from said second three-dimensional model comprise tooth wear, and gingival recession and erosion.