Arrangements for intraoral scanning

Systems and methods for producing aligners for repositioning one or more teeth of a user include a management system including a communications device, a processor, and memory. The management system receives a selection of a patient-intake option made by a user via a user interface displaying a first option for an intraoral scan to be taken of the user's teeth or for dental impressions to be made of the user's teeth. The management system schedules an appointment for the intraoral scan or the delivery of the impression kit to the user, and generates and causes transmission of a plurality of messages to the user. Aligners are manufactured and sent to the user based on a treatment plan generated based on the scan or the dental impressions. The treatment plan is approved by a dentist or an orthodontist without the approving dentist or orthodontist having physically seen the user.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure relates generally to the field of intraoral scanning, and more specifically, to intraoral scanning for generating a three-dimensional image of a user's teeth that is used in treating misalignment of the user's teeth.

BACKGROUND

Dental impressions and associated physical or digital reproductions of a patient's teeth can be used by dentists or orthodontists to diagnose or treat an oral condition, such as the misalignment of the patient's teeth. For example, to take a dental impression, a dental tray having a viscous, thixotropic impression material is fit over the dental arches of the patient, and then the impression material sets to a solid over time, thereby providing an imprint of the patient's dental arches once the dental trays are removed from the patient's mouth. The impressions provide a detailed and stable negative of the patient's teeth and tissues in their mouth. The negative impressions may then be utilized to produce a physical or digital reproduction of the patient's teeth and surrounding tissues.

Traditionally, dental impressions are made in a dental office and require significant time. Dental offices typically deliver the dental impressions to an outside vendor that utilizes the impressions to form a positive model of the teeth and surrounding tissue. If the dental impressions includes any errors (e.g., incomplete impression of the teeth and tissues), the patient may be required to return to the dental office to have a second impression made. Furthermore, if the dental impressions are used by the dental professional in the course of administering a continuing treatment plan, the patient is typically required to undergo many check-up appointments at the dental office so that the dental professional can track the patient's treatment and modify the treatment plan as necessary. Each of these examples results in significant inconvenience to the patient and increases the cost of the treatment plan to both the dental professional and the patient.

SUMMARY

According to one aspect of the disclosure, a method of producing aligners for repositioning one or more teeth of a user is disclosed. The method includes receiving, by an appointment management system, a request to schedule an appointment at an intraoral scanning site having an intraoral scanner configured to conduct an intraoral scan of a mouth of a user. The method includes scheduling, by the appointment management system, the appointment in accordance with the request. The method includes generating and communicating, by the appointment management system, a message to the user. The message includes a confirmation confirming the scheduled appointment. The method includes conducting, using the intraoral scanner, the intraoral scan at the intraoral scanning site during the scheduled appointment. The intraoral scan generates three-dimensional data of the mouth of the user. The method includes generating, by a treatment plan computing system at a treatment plan site, a treatment plan for the user based on the three-dimensional data of the mouth of the user. The method includes receiving an approval of the treatment plan by a dental or orthodontic professional. The approval is received without the dental or orthodontic professional physically seeing the user in person. The method includes producing, at a fabrication site, a plurality of aligners based on the treatment plan. The plurality of aligners are specific to the user and are configured to reposition one or more teeth of the user in accordance with the treatment plan. The method includes sending the plurality of aligners to the user.

According to another aspect of the disclosure, a method of administering aligners for repositioning one or more teeth of a user is disclosed. The method includes requesting, via a web portal or mobile application, an appointment at an intraoral scanning site having an intraoral scanner configured to conduct an intraoral scan of a mouth of a user. The method includes receiving, from an appointment management system, a confirmation message confirming the scheduled appointment. The method includes receiving, via the intraoral scanner, the intraoral scan at the intraoral scanning site during the scheduled appointment. The intraoral scanner generates three-dimensional dimensional data of the mouth of the user. The method includes receiving a plurality of aligners which are generated in accordance with a treatment plan. The treatment plan is generated at a computing system by a dental or orthodontic professional without physically seeing the user. The treatment plan is generated based on the three-dimensional data of the mouth of the user. The plurality of aligners are specific to the user and configured to reposition one or more teeth of the user in accordance with the treatment plan. The method includes administering the plurality of aligners in a predetermined sequence to reposition the one or more teeth of the user in accordance with the treatment plan.

According to another aspect of the disclosure, a system for generating aligners for modifying an alignment of a user's teeth is disclosed. The system includes an appointment management system, an intraoral scanning site, and a fabrication site. The appointment management system is configured to receive a receive a request to schedule an appointment for receiving an intraoral scan of a mouth of a user. The appointment management system is further configured to schedule the appointment. The appointment management system is further configured to generate and communicate a message to a user device associated with the user. The message includes a confirmation confirming the scheduled appointment. The intraoral scanning site includes an intraoral scanner configured to generate three-dimensional data from an intraoral scan of the mouth of the user. The intraoral scanning site includes one or more computing systems configured to communicate the three-dimensional data from the intraoral scan for generation of a treatment plan. The fabrication site includes one or more computing systems configured to receive data corresponding to the treatment plan. The fabrication site includes thermoforming equipment configured to produce a plurality of aligners based on the treatment plan data. The plurality of aligners are specific to the user and are configured to reposition one or more teeth of the user in accordance with the treatment plan. The one or more aligners are sent to the user for repositioning the one or more teeth of the user.

Various other embodiments and aspects of the disclosure will become apparent based on the drawings and detailed description of the following disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The present disclosure is directed to systems and methods for conducting an intraoral scan of a user at a location. A user can request an appointment at an intraoral scanning site. For example, the user can request an appointment in advance of the requested appointment time (e.g., online, via a mobile application, via a telephone call) or the user can request an appointment at the time of requested appointment (e.g., a “walk in”). In requesting the appointment at the intraoral scanning site, the user can provide various information for reserving the appointment, such as a reason for making the appointment (e.g., misaligned teeth) or a dental condition of the patient (e.g., having crowns, an impacted tooth). The user can make the request online (e.g., via an internet scheduling website associated with the intraoral scanning site). When the appointment timeslot is held for the user, one or more scheduling alerts can be communicated to the user (e.g., confirmation notification, reminder notification, appointment modification query). Upon arriving at the appointment, the user can provide health history and consent information. The user can receive the intraoral scan, and upon confirmation from the user to purchase the aligners, one or more sets of aligners configured to modify the alignment of the user's teeth can be sent to the user.

The systems and methods described herein may have many benefits including, but not limited to, increasing user excitement about the alignment process, increasing the likelihood of a user showing up for their appointment, and increasing the likelihood of a user purchasing aligners at the intraoral scanning site, as will be discussed in greater detail below.

Referring toFIG. 1, a dental impression kit10is shown having dental assemblies (discussed in more detail below) therein. The dental impression kit10may be ordered by a customer and shipped in a container or box12, shown inFIG. 1, from a vendor. After administering the dental impression kit10at home, the customer may ship the dental impression kit10in the box12back to the vendor for analysis. The box12is sized for standard shipping and is likewise sized for delivery into the customer's mailbox. Accordingly, additional fees for shipment of the dental impression kit10in the box12may not be required.

Referring toFIG. 2, the box12includes an insert14therein that is configured to retain the dental assemblies. The insert14includes a top layer16having a plurality of cutouts formed therein. A front cutout18is sized and shaped to receive a user's finger to lift the top layer16from the box12. A pair of tray cutouts20are sized and shaped to retain dental trays (described below). The tray cutouts20include a flange22that is sized and shaped to retain a front flange of the dental tray. A pair of flanges24retain rear ends of the dental tray. Circular cutouts26are sized and shaped to retain containers of putty (described below).

A front flap28is joined to the top layer16along a fold line30. The front flap28is configured to be folded such that an end32of the front flap28engages a bottom of the box12, when the insert14is positioned within the box12. The front flap28supports the top layer16within the box12. A center flap34extends from the top layer16along a fold line36. The center flap34is also connected to a second or bottom layer38along a fold line40. When the insert14is positioned within the box12, the center flap34supports the top layer16within the box.

The bottom layer38is configured to be positioned below the top layer16, when the insert14is positioned within the box12. The bottom layer38also includes a plurality of cutouts formed therein. A pair of tray cutouts20are sized and shaped to retain dental trays. The tray cutouts20include a flange22that is sized and shaped to retain a front flange of the dental tray. A pair of flanges24retain rear ends of the dental tray. Circular cutouts26are sized and shaped to retain containers of putty.

A front flap42extends from the bottom layer38along a fold line44. The front flap42is configured to be folded such that an end46of the front flap42engages a bottom of the box12, when the insert14is positioned within the box12. A pair of side flaps48extends from the bottom layer38along fold lines50. The side flaps48are configured to be folded such that an end52of each side flap48engages a bottom of the box12, when the insert14is positioned within the box12. Accordingly, the front flap42and the side flaps48support the bottom layer38within the box12, when the insert14is positioned within the box12.

In some embodiments, the top layer16and the bottom layer38are not integrally formed. In such an embodiment, the top layer16is configured to be positioned on top of the bottom layer38such that the top layer is individually removable while the bottom layer38remains within the box12.

Referring toFIG. 3, when the box12is opened, an instruction manual54is positioned at a top of the box contents. The instruction manual54provides step-by-step instructions for administering the contents of the dental impression kit10. A method for administering the dental impression kit10according to the instructions is described in more detail with respect toFIG. 10.

Referring toFIG. 4, when the instruction manual54is removed from the box12, the top layer16of the insert14is exposed. The top layer16includes the contents of an initial dental assembly56. Referring toFIG. 7, the initial dental assembly56includes two initial dental trays58, two containers of an initial base putty60, and two containers of an initial catalyst putty62. The instruction manual54includes initial instructions for administering the initial dental assembly56. Generally, in use, a container of initial base putty60is mixed with a container of initial catalyst putty62to form a putty mixture. The putty mixture is then positioned in one of the initial dental trays58to form a dental impression of the upper teeth. The second container of initial base putty60is then mixed with the second container of initial catalyst putty62to form another putty mixture that is positioned in the second initial dental tray58to form a dental impression of the lower teeth. This process is explained in more detail below with respect toFIG. 10.

Still referring toFIG. 7, the initial dental trays58include a substantially arched mouth insert64that is sized and shaped to be inserted into the user's mouth. Particularly, the insert64is sized and shaped to be received into either an upper portion or a lower portion of the user's mouth. The insert64includes a cavity66defined by a bottom wall68and a pair of sidewalls70extending upward from the bottom wall68. The cavity66is sized to receive the putty mixture. When the initial dental tray58is inserted into the user's mouth, the user bites down on the initial dental tray58so that the user's teeth are within the cavity66and bite into the putty mixture. A flange72extends from a front of the initial dental tray58. The flange72is configured to be gripped by the user to insert and remove the initial dental tray58from the user's mouth.

In some embodiments, the initial catalyst putty62is a polyvinyl siloxane that provides a predetermined period of time to set when mixed with the initial base putty60. The predetermined period of time is based on a period of time necessary for a user to administer the dental impression kit10at home. That is, the predetermined period of time is selected to allow the user enough time to prepare the putty mixture and dental impression, while also preventing the putty mixture from deforming when the initial dental tray58having the putty mixture therein is removed from the user's mouth. In some embodiments, the initial base putty60and the initial catalyst putty62may be required to be at room temperature before mixing.

Referring back toFIG. 4, after the initial dental assembly56is used to form an initial set of dental impressions of both the upper and lower teeth, the user may grip the top layer16by the front cutout18and lift the top layer16from the box12. Specifically, the top layer16folds back along the fold line36to expose the bottom layer38.

FIG. 5shows, the top layer16folded back to expose the bottom layer38. Notably, the top layer16is still connected to the bottom layer38by the center flap34; however, the top layer16is folded back so that the bottom layer38may be accessed. The bottom layer38includes a redundant dental assembly74. The redundant dental assembly74is identical to the initial dental assembly56, described with respect toFIG. 7, and includes two redundant dental trays59that are identical to the initial dental trays58described with respect toFIG. 7, two containers of a redundant base putty61that are identical to the containers of initial base putty60described with respect toFIG. 7, and two containers of a redundant catalyst putty63that are identical to the containers of initial catalyst putty described with respect toFIG. 7. The instruction manual54includes redundant instructions for administering the redundant dental assembly74. The redundant dental assembly74is utilized to form a second set of dental impressions of the upper and lower teeth (as described below). Accordingly, the redundant dental assembly74provides redundancy in administering the dental impression kit10. This redundancy enables the user to “practice” forming the dental impression with the initial dental assembly56. Alternatively or in addition to, the redundancy provides for two sets of dental impressions if one of the impressions is not properly achieved.

Referring toFIG. 6, a pair of gloves76and a dental appliance78are included at a bottom80of the box12. Particularly, the pair of gloves76and the dental appliance78are positioned below the insert14. When opening the dental impression kit10, the user may first remove the instruction manual54and the insert14to gain access to the pair of gloves76and the dental appliance78. The insert14may then be positioned back into the box so that the user may appropriately follow the instructions in the instruction manual54, as described in more detail below.

Referring toFIG. 8, the dental appliance78includes a handle82having a pair of flanges84at each end. The flanges84are generally U-shaped and form a cavity86. The instruction manual54includes appliance instructions for utilizing the dental appliance78. The cavity86is configured to receive the user's lips at the sides of the user's mouth. The dental appliance78is configured to separate the user's lips to open the user's mouth. In this position, the user may photograph his/her teeth, as described in more detail below.

FIG. 9shows the pair of gloves76. In some embodiments, the gloves76are formed from a non-latex, hypo-allergenic material. The gloves76may also be sized and stretchable for any user's hands. The gloves76are used to protect the user's hands from the initial base putty60and the initial catalyst putty62. The gloves76also prevent contamination of the initial base putty60and the initial catalyst putty62.

Referring toFIG. 10, a method100for administering the dental impression kit10includes receiving from a vendor the dental impression kit10in the box12in the mail. The box12is opened so that the user may obtain the instruction manual54for the dental impression kit10. After removing the instruction manual54, the entire insert14may be removed to expose the gloves76and the dental appliance78. After the gloves76and dental appliance78are removed from the box12, the insert14is positioned back into the box12so that the instruction manual54may be properly followed. The user is instructed to wash his/her hands and put the gloves76on before proceeding.

With the insert14positioned back into the box12, the top layer16is exposed. The initial dental assembly56is then administered, at step102, by following the initial instruction of the instruction manual54. At step104, the initial base putty60is mixed with the initial catalyst putty62to form an initial putty mixture. In some embodiments, the initial base putty60is mixed with the initial catalyst putty62for approximately 20 seconds to form the initial putty mixture. In other embodiments, the initial base putty60is mixed with the initial catalyst putty62for a time period required by the putty type and/or environmental conditions. For example, the mixing time may vary based on geographical region or the time of year, e.g. summer or winter. At step106, the initial putty mixture is then positioned within the cavity66of the initial dental tray58. In some embodiments, the user is instructed to position the initial putty mixture within the cavity66of the initial dental tray58within a time frame of approximately less than or equal to one minute from the time the initial base putty and60the initial catalyst putty62are opened. In other embodiments, the initial putty mixture is positioned within the cavity66of the initial dental tray58within a time period required by the putty type and/or environmental conditions. For example, the time may vary based on geographical region or the time of year, e.g. summer or winter. With the initial putty mixture positioned within the cavity66of the initial dental tray58, the user then inserts the initial dental tray58into his/her mouth and bites down so that the user's upper teeth are positioned within the initial putty mixture to form an initial dental impression, at step108. In some embodiments the initial dental tray58is retained within the user's mouth for a time period of approximately 2.5 to 3.5 minutes to create the initial dental impression. In other embodiments, the initial dental tray58is retained within the user's mouth for a time period required by the putty type and/or environmental conditions. For example, the time may vary based on geographical region or the time of year, e.g. summer or winter. At step110, steps104-108are repeated using the second initial dental tray58, the second container of initial base putty60, and the second container of initial catalyst putty62to form an initial dental impression of the user's lower teeth.

After the initial set of dental impressions has been made, the user folds the top layer16back to expose the bottom layer38and the redundant dental assembly74. The redundant dental assembly74is then administered, at step112, by following the redundant instruction of the instruction manual54. At step114, the redundant base putty61is mixed with the redundant catalyst putty63to form a redundant putty mixture. In some embodiments, the redundant base putty61is mixed with the redundant catalyst putty63for approximately 20 seconds to form the redundant putty mixture. In other embodiments, the redundant base putty61is mixed with the redundant catalyst putty63for a time period required by the putty type and/or environmental conditions. For example, the time may vary based on geographical region or the time of year, e.g. summer or winter. The redundant putty mixture is then positioned within the cavity66of the redundant dental tray59, at step116. In some embodiments, the user is instructed to position the redundant putty mixture within the cavity66of the redundant dental tray59within a time frame of approximately less than or equal to one minute from the time the redundant base putty61the redundant catalyst putty63are opened. In other embodiments, the redundant putty mixture is positioned within the cavity66of the redundant dental tray59within a time period required by the putty type and/or environmental conditions. For example, the time may vary based on geographical region or the time of year, e.g. summer or winter. With the redundant putty mixture positioned within the cavity66of the redundant dental tray59, the user then inserts the redundant dental tray59into his/her mouth and bites down so that the user's upper teeth are positioned within the redundant putty mixture to form a redundant dental impression, at step118. In some embodiments the redundant dental tray59is retained within the user's mouth for a time period of approximately 2.5 to 3.5 minutes to create the redundant dental impression. In other embodiments, the redundant dental tray59is retained within the user's mouth for a time period required by the putty type and/or environmental conditions. For example, the time may vary based on geographical region or the time of year, e.g. summer or winter. At step120, steps114-118are repeated using the second redundant dental tray59, the second container of redundant base putty61, and the second container of redundant catalyst putty63to form a redundant dental impression of the user's lower teeth.

After administering the initial dental assembly56and the redundant dental assembly74, the user has created two sets of dental impressions of both his/her upper teeth and his/her lower teeth. The insert14may be removed from the box12and discarded. The dental appliance78is then inserted into the user's mouth to separate the user's lips and expose the user's teeth, at step122. With the dental appliance78in his/her mouth, the user takes a series of photos of his/her teeth in accordance with an appliance instruction in the instruction manual54, at step124. These photos may then be uploaded to the vendor's website via a web portal or the like, at step126. The user then positions both sets of dental impressions, i.e. the upper and lower initial dental impressions from the initial dental assembly56and the upper and lower redundant dental impressions from the redundant dental assembly74into the empty box12. It should be noted that the dental impressions are not removed from the dental trays58,59. That is, the dental trays58,59with the dental impressions therein are positioned in the box12. The box is then sealed with a sticker included within the dental impression kit10. At step128, the box12with the dental impressions sealed therein is mailed back to the vendor using a return mailing label that is included in the dental impression kit10.

Referring toFIG. 11, a dental impression kit300is shown having dental assemblies (discussed in more detail below) therein. The dental impression kit300may be ordered by a customer and shipped in a container or box302, shown inFIG. 11, from a vendor. After administering the dental impression kit300at home, the customer may ship the dental impression kit300in the box302back to the vendor for analysis. The box302is sized for standard shipping and is likewise sized for delivery into the customer's mailbox. Accordingly, additional fees for shipment of the dental impression kit300in the box302may not be required.

Referring toFIG. 12, when the box302is opened, an instruction manual304is positioned at a top of the box contents. The instruction manual304provides step-by-step instructions for administering the contents of the dental impression kit300. Referring toFIG. 13, when the instruction manual304is removed from the box302, an insert306is exposed that includes the contents of an upper initial dental assembly308. The initial upper dental assembly308includes an initial upper dental tray310, a container of an initial upper base putty312, and a container of an initial upper catalyst putty314. The instruction manual304includes initial instructions for administering the initial upper dental assembly308. Generally, in use, the initial upper base putty312is mixed with the initial upper catalyst putty314to form a putty mixture. The putty mixture is then positioned in the initial upper dental tray310to form a dental impression of the upper teeth.

Referring toFIG. 14, when the insert306is removed, another insert316is exposed that includes the contents of an initial lower dental assembly318. The initial lower dental assembly318includes an initial lower dental tray320, a container of an initial lower base putty322, and a container of an initial lower catalyst putty324. The instruction manual304includes initial instructions for administering the initial lower dental assembly318. Generally, in use, the initial lower base putty322is mixed with the initial lower catalyst putty324to form a putty mixture. The putty mixture is then positioned in the initial lower dental tray320to form a dental impression of the lower teeth.

Referring toFIG. 15, when the insert316is removed from the box302, an insert326is exposed that includes the contents of a redundant upper dental assembly328. The redundant upper dental assembly328includes a redundant upper dental tray330, a container of a redundant upper base putty332, and a container of a redundant upper catalyst putty334. The instruction manual304includes redundant instructions for administering the redundant upper dental assembly328. Generally, in use, the redundant upper base putty332is mixed with the redundant upper catalyst putty334to form a putty mixture. The putty mixture is then positioned in the redundant upper dental tray330to form a dental impression of the upper teeth.

Referring toFIG. 16, when the insert326is removed, another insert336is exposed that includes the contents of a redundant lower dental assembly338. The redundant lower dental assembly338includes a redundant lower dental tray340, a container of a redundant lower base putty342, and a container of a redundant lower catalyst putty344. The instruction manual304includes redundant instructions for administering the redundant lower dental assembly338. Generally, in use, the redundant lower base putty342is mixed with the redundant lower catalyst putty344to form a putty mixture. The putty mixture is then positioned in the redundant lower dental tray340to form a dental impression of the lower teeth.

Referring toFIG. 17, another insert350includes a pair of gloves76and a dental appliance78. The insert350is positioned below the insert336. When opening the dental impression kit10, the user may first remove the instruction manual54and the inserts306,316,326, and336to gain access to the pair of gloves76and the dental appliance78. The inserts306,316,326, and336may then be positioned back into the box so that the user may appropriately follow the instructions in the instruction manual54, as described in more detail below.

Referring toFIG. 18, an alignment kit400is mailed to the user after the user specific aligners have been created by the vendor. The alignment kit400includes a container402having a top insert404. The top insert404includes an instruction manual406that provides instructions for administering the alignment kit400. The top insert404also includes a case408for retaining aligners (described below), a case of tooth whitening410to be used with the aligners, and lip balm412. A tool kit414is also provided in the top insert404.

Referring toFIG. 19, the tool kit414includes an extractor416for removing aligners from the user's mouth. The extractor416includes a first hook418for pulling upper aligners off of the user's upper teeth. A second hook420pushes lower aligners off the user's lower teeth. The tool kit414also includes a file422for smoothing out edges of the aligners for the user's comfort. At least one rubber pellet424is also provided for aiding the insertion of the aligners. When the user positions the aligner's in his/her mouth, the user may chew on the rubber pellets424to push the aligners into position on the user's upper and lower teeth.

Referring toFIG. 20, when the top insert404is removed from the container402, at least two lower inserts426are exposed. The lower inserts426include the aligners428that will be inserted in the user's mouth. Referring toFIG. 21, the additional lower inserts426may be positioned below the first layer of lower inserts426.

Referring now toFIG. 22, in an illustrative embodiment, a system1100for remote orthodontic assessment and treatment includes an application server1102in communication over a network1112with multiple other computing devices, such as one or more staff devices1104, user devices1106, provider devices1108, and/or dental labs1110. In use, as described further below, the application server1102allows a user (using a user device1106) to order a dental impression kit10, as described above, and then upload images of the user's mouth and teeth to the application server1102. The application server1102allows a staff professional/hygienist to review and approve the images using the staff device1104, and then allows a provider (e.g., an orthodontist) to perform a photo assessment using the provider device1108. After the photo assessment is approved, the application server1102receives a 3D treatment plan from the dental lab1110, and the application server1102allows the provider to approve the treatment plan using the provider device1108. After approval, the application server1102allows the user to view the 3D treatment plan using the user device1106. The application server1102optimizes the 3D treatment plan for viewing on the user device1106. Thus, the system1100may allow for remote orthodontic treatment and assessment, without requiring the user to visit the provider's physical offices. Accordingly, the system1100may improve the cost and/or availability of orthodontic services. Additionally, by optimizing the 3D treatment plan, the system1100provides an improved user experience for viewing treatment plans without the aid of an orthodontist.

The application server1102may be embodied as any type of computation or computer device capable of performing the functions described herein, including, without limitation, a computer, a server, a workstation, a desktop computer, a laptop computer, a notebook computer, a tablet computer, a mobile computing device, a wearable computing device, a network appliance, a web appliance, a distributed computing system, a processor-based system, and/or a consumer electronic device. As such, the application server1102may be embodied as a single server computing device or a collection of servers and associated devices. For example, in some embodiments, the application server1102may be embodied as a “virtual server” formed from multiple computing devices distributed across the network1112and operating in a public or private cloud. Accordingly, although the application server1102is illustrated inFIG. 1and described below as embodied as a single server computing device, it should be appreciated that the application server1102may be embodied as multiple devices cooperating together to facilitate the functionality described below. As shown inFIG. 1, the application server1102illustratively include a processor1120, an input/output subsystem1122, a memory1124, a data storage device1126, and a communication subsystem1128, and/or other components and devices commonly found in a server computer or similar computing device. Of course, the application server1102may include other or additional components, such as those commonly found in a server computer (e.g., various input/output devices), in other embodiments. Additionally, in some embodiments, one or more of the illustrative components may be incorporated in, or otherwise form a portion of, another component. For example, the memory1124, or portions thereof, may be incorporated in the processor1120in some embodiments.

The processor1120may be embodied as any type of processor capable of performing the functions described herein. The processor1120may be embodied as a single or multi-core processor(s), digital signal processor, microcontroller, or other processor or processing/controlling circuit. Similarly, the memory1124may be embodied as any type of volatile or non-volatile memory or data storage capable of performing the functions described herein. In operation, the memory1124may store various data and software used during operation of the application server1102, such as operating systems, applications, programs, libraries, and drivers. The memory1124is communicatively coupled to the processor1120via the I/O subsystem1122, which may be embodied as circuitry and/or components to facilitate input/output operations with the processor1120, the memory1124, and other components of the application server1102. For example, the I/O subsystem1122may be embodied as, or otherwise include, memory controller hubs, input/output control hubs, platform controller hubs, integrated control circuitry, firmware devices, communication links (i.e., point-to-point links, bus links, wires, cables, light guides, printed circuit board traces, etc.) and/or other components and subsystems to facilitate the input/output operations. In some embodiments, the I/O subsystem1122may form a portion of a system-on-a-chip (SoC) and be incorporated, along with the processor1120, the memory1124, and other components of the application server1102, on a single integrated circuit chip.

The data storage device1126may be embodied as any type of device or devices configured for short-term or long-term storage of data such as, for example, memory devices and circuits, memory cards, hard disk drives, solid-state drives, or other data storage devices. The communication subsystem1128of the application server1102may be embodied as any communication circuit, device, or collection thereof, capable of enabling communications between the application server1102and other remote devices over a network. The communication subsystem1128may be configured to use any one or more communication technology (e.g., wired or wireless communications) and associated protocols (e.g., Ethernet, InfiniBand®, Bluetooth®, Wi-Fi®, WiMAX, etc.) to effect such communication.

As shown, the application server1102may also include one or more peripheral devices1130. The peripheral devices1130may include any number of additional input/output devices, interface devices, and/or other peripheral devices. For example, in some embodiments, the peripheral devices1130may include a display, touch screen, graphics circuitry, keyboard, mouse, speaker system, microphone, network interface, and/or other input/output devices, interface devices, and/or peripheral devices.

As described further below, the staff device1104is configured to upload, review, and otherwise manage data stored by the application server1102. The staff device1104may be embodied as any type of device capable of performing the functions described herein, such as, without limitation, a smartphone, a cellular phone, a tablet computer, a notebook computer, a laptop computer, a desktop computer, a consumer electronic device, a wearable computing device, a smart appliance, and/or any other computing device capable of performing the functions described herein. Accordingly, the staff device1104may include a processor, an I/O subsystem, a memory, a data storage device, communication circuitry, and/or other components and devices commonly found in a notebook computer or similar computing device. The individual components of the staff device1104may be similar to the corresponding components of the application server1102, the description of which is applicable to the corresponding components of the staff device1104and is not repeated herein so as not to obscure the present disclosure.

As described further below, the user device1106is configured to allow a user to send and receive images, questionnaire responses, and other data with the application server1102. The user device1106may be embodied as any type of device capable of performing the functions described herein, such as, without limitation, a smartphone, a cellular phone, a tablet computer, a notebook computer, a laptop computer, a desktop computer, a consumer electronic device, a wearable computing device, a smart appliance, and/or any other computing device capable of performing the functions described herein. Accordingly, the user device1106may include a processor, an I/O subsystem, a memory, a data storage device, communication circuitry, and/or other components and devices commonly found in a smartphone or similar computing device. The individual components of the user device1106may be similar to the corresponding components of the application server1102, the description of which is applicable to the corresponding components of the user device1106and is not repeated herein so as not to obscure the present disclosure.

As described further below, the provider device1108is configured to allow a provider to review image assessments and treatment plans and to otherwise access the application server1102. The provider device1108may be embodied as any type of device capable of performing the functions described herein, such as, without limitation, a smartphone, a cellular phone, a tablet computer, a notebook computer, a laptop computer, a desktop computer, a consumer electronic device, a wearable computing device, a smart appliance, and/or any other computing device capable of performing the functions described herein. Accordingly, the provider device1108may include a processor, an I/O subsystem, a memory, a data storage device, communication circuitry, and/or other components and devices commonly found in a notebook computer or similar computing device. The individual components of the provider device1108may be similar to the corresponding components of the application server1102, the description of which is applicable to the corresponding components of the provider device1108and is not repeated herein so as not to obscure the present disclosure.

The dental lab1110may be embodied as any dental analysis and/or manufacturing facility that is capable of generating orthodontic treatment plans or otherwise performing the functions described herein. In particular, the dental lab1110may include or otherwise have access to one or more computing devices capable of executing software to generate orthodontic treatment plans.

As discussed in more detail below, the application server1102, the staff device1104, the user device1106, and the provider device1108may be configured to transmit and receive data with each other and/or other devices of the system1100over the network1112. The network1112may be embodied as any number of various wired and/or wireless networks. For example, the network1112may be embodied as, or otherwise include, a wired or wireless local area network (LAN), and/or a wired or wireless wide area network (WAN). As such, the network1112may include any number of additional devices, such as additional computers, routers, and switches, to facilitate communications among the devices of the system1100. In the illustrative embodiment, the network1112is embodied as a local Ethernet network.

Referring now toFIG. 23, in an illustrative embodiment, the application server1102establishes an environment1200during operation. The illustrative environment1200includes a staff portal1202, a provider portal1204, a user portal1206, an optimizer1208, and a data repository1210. The various components of the environment1200may be embodied as hardware, firmware, software, or a combination thereof. As such, in some embodiments, one or more of the components of the environment1200may be embodied as circuitry or collection of electrical devices (e.g., staff portal circuitry1202, provider portal circuitry1204, user portal circuitry1206, optimizer circuitry1208, and/or data repository circuitry1210). It should be appreciated that, in such embodiments, one or more of the staff portal circuitry1202, the provider portal circuitry1204, the user portal circuitry1206, the optimizer circuitry1208, and/or the data repository circuitry1210may form a portion of one or more of the processor1120, the I/O subsystem1122, and/or other components of the application server1102. Additionally, in some embodiments, one or more of the illustrative components may form a portion of another component and/or one or more of the illustrative components may be independent of one another.

The data repository1210is configured to manage and store case data related to each user. The data repository1210may be configured to receive multiple images that represent the teeth of a user. The data repository1210may be further configured to receive a treatment plan for the user. The treatment plan may include a sequence of three-dimensional models indicative of the teeth of the user. Thus, the data repository1210may store, among other data, image data1212and/or treatment plan data1214.

The staff portal1202is configured to manage data access and other communications with the staff devices1104. In particular, the staff portal1202may be configured to provide the images that represent the teeth of the user to a staff device1104. The staff portal1202is further configured to receive an approval from the staff device1104indicating that a person (e.g., a staff professional person and/or hygienist) has approved the images for assessment by a provider (e.g., an orthodontist).

The provider portal1204is configured to manage data access and other communications with the provider devices1108. In particular, the provider portal1204may be configured to provide the images to a provider device1108in response receiving the approval from the staff device1104. The provider portal1204may be further configured to receive an approval from the provider device1108indicating that the provider successfully performed an assessment of the fitness of the user for treatment. A treatment plan may be received in response to that approval, and the provider portal1204may be further configured to provide the treatment plan to the provider device1108and to receive an approval from the provider device1108indicating that the provider approved the treatment plan.

The user portal1206is configured to manage data access and other communications with the user devices1106. In particular, the user portal1206may be configured to receive the images indicative of the teeth of the user from a user device1106. In some embodiments, the images may include an upper, open view image, a lower, open view image, and a straight-on, closed view image. The user portal1206may be further configured to receive a dental history questionnaire response from the user device1106. The dental history questionnaire response may be included with the images to the staff device1104and/or to the provider device1108. The user portal1206is further configured to provide a visualization of the treatment plan to the user device1106in response to receiving approval of the treatment plan from the provider device1108.

The optimizer1208is configured to optimize the sequence of three-dimensional models to generate an optimized sequence of three-dimensional models. The visualization of the treatment plan may use the optimized sequence of three-dimensional models.

Referring now toFIGS. 24A and 24B, in use, the application server1102may execute a method1300for remote orthodontic treatment and assessment. It should be appreciated that, in some embodiments, the operations of the method1300may be performed by one or more components of the environment1200of the application server1102as shown inFIG. 23. The method1300begins in block1302, in which the application server1102receives a smile assessment response from a user device1106. The smile assessment response may be embodied as a web form, electronic message, or other data submitted by the user device1106that is indicative of whether the user is a potential candidate for orthodontic treatment. For example, the smile assessment response may include answers to questions indicating the current condition of the user's mouth and the user's chief complaint (i.e., the user's biggest concern with his or her smile). The smile assessment response may be submitted in response to a web form or other web page that includes appropriate questions and instructions. One potential embodiment of a smile assessment web page is described below in connection withFIG. 26. After receiving the smile assessment response, in block1304the application server1102determines whether the user is a potential candidate for orthodontic treatment based on the smile assessment response. If the application server1102determines that the user is not a good candidate, the method1300loops back to block1302, in which the application server1102may receive additional smile assessment responses from the same user device1106and/or other user devices1106. If the application server1102determines that the user is a good candidate, the method1300advances to block1306.

In block1306, the application server1102determines an appropriate intake technique for the user. In the illustrative embodiment, potential intake techniques include performing a three-dimensional (3D) scan of the user's teeth and mouth at an oral scan center, or delivering a dental impression kit10, as described above. The application server1102may allow the user to select an intake technique using the user device1106, for example by selecting an option from a web page. In some embodiments, the application server1102may determine whether the user is located near an oral scan center and, if near a scan center, present the user with the scan option. If the application server1102determines to use the dental impression kit10, the method1300branches to block1312, described below. If the application server1102determines to use the 3D scan, the method1300branches to block1308.

In block1308, the application server1102allows the user to schedule an appointment at a 3D oral scan center. The application server1102may use any technique to schedule the appointment. For example, the application server1102may provide a web application or other interface to the user device1106to allow the user to select a date and time for the appointment. The application server1102may store the appointment information and provide reminders to the user as appropriate. At the appointment, a professional uses a 3D camera to capture a 3D optical scan of the user's mouth. The professional may be a hygienist or other trained professional, but is typically not an orthodontist. After the 3D scan appointment, in block1310the application server1102receives 3D optical scan data for the user's mouth. The 3D optical scan data may be embodied as any data file or collection of data files that include images of the patient's mouth as well as corresponding depth or other spatial information. After receiving the 3D optical scan data, the method1300advances to block1322, described below.

Referring back to block1306, if the application server1102determines to use the dental impression kit10, the method1300branches to block1312, in which the application server1102schedules delivery of a dental impression kit10to the user. After the user has received the dental impression kit10, in block1314the application server1102receives images of the user's mouth and teeth. The user device1106may upload the images to the application server1102, for example, through a web interface. In some embodiments, the application server1102may establish an account for the user. The application server1102may present the user with an account status user interface that provides access to an interface for uploading images. Images may be updated at any time after the account is created, for example after purchasing the dental impression kit10, during use of the dental impression kit10, and/or after creating a scan appointment. One potential embodiment of an account status user interface is described below in connection withFIG. 27. As part of the image upload web interface, the application server1102may provide instructions to the user on which views to capture and upload, and in some embodiments may provide tips to improve image quality. For example, the instructions may recommend that the user has another person assist in taking the images and/or may recommend using a flash or a bright light source such as a bathroom light or a window on a sunny day. As described above, the dental impression kit10may also include an instruction manual54that includes similar instructions and/or tips. In block1316, the application server1102receives images for three views of the user's mouth: a view of the upper teeth with the mouth open, a view of the lower teeth with the mouth open, and a view of the teeth from straight on with the mouth closed. One potential embodiment of a web interface to provide instructions to the user and to upload images is described further below in connection withFIGS. 27A-27C. In some embodiments, in block1318the user may use the dental appliance78to separate the user's lips and open the user's mouth while taking the images, as described above. In some embodiments, in block1320the application server1102may receive additional images of the user's mouth and teeth, such as an upper, closed view; a left side, closed view; a right side, closed view; and/or a straight-on, full-smile view. As described further below, the additional images may be requested by a staff professional, a hygienist, and/or a provider while performing an image assessment. For example, the additional images may be requested for complicated cases. After receiving the images, the method1300advances to block1322.

In block1322, the application server1102receives a dental history questionnaire response from the user device1106. The dental history questionnaire response may be embodied as any web form, electronic message, or other data submitted by the user device1106. The dental history questionnaire response may include information related to the user's dental history that may be used by a staff professional, hygienist, and/or provider to determine the user's fitness for treatment. One potential embodiment of a dental history questionnaire is described below in connection withFIGS. 28A-28E.

In block1324, the application server1102provides images of the user's mouth and teeth as well as the dental history questionnaire response to a staff professional and/or hygienist for review and approval. For example, the application server1102may establish a staff portal web site that is accessible by the staff device1104. Because the images of the user's mouth and teeth and the dental history questionnaire response may include personal health information, the application server1102may restrict access to the staff portal or other user interfaces to authorized users (e.g., authorized staff professionals and/or hygienists). The staff professional/hygienist may review the images and questionnaire data to determine whether the images are sufficient to allow the provider to determine the user's fitness for treatment. For example, the staff professional/hygienist may determine whether each of the images are of the correct view and/or are of sufficient quality. The staff professional/hygienist may indicate whether each image is approved and may also request that the user provide additional views or other images. One potential embodiment of a web interface provided by the application server1102to perform the image review is described below in connection withFIGS. 29A and 29B. In block1326, the application server1102determines whether the staff professional/hygienist approved the images. If not, the method1300may loop back to block1314, in which the application server1102receives additional images from the user device1106. If the staff professional/hygienist approved the images, the method1300advances to block1328.

In block1328, the application server1102provides images of the user's mouth and teeth as well as the dental history questionnaire response to a provider for assessment and approval. For example, the application server1102may establish a provider portal web site that is accessible by the provider device1108. Because the images of the user's mouth and teeth and the dental history questionnaire response may include personal health information, the application server1102may restrict access to the provider portal or other user interfaces to authorized users (e.g., authorized providers). The provider may review the images and questionnaire data to determine the user's fitness for treatment. For example, the provider may determine whether the user's mouth and/or desired treatment outcome are fit for treatment with invisible plastic aligners. Continuing that example, the user may not be fit for treatment, for example, if the user's mouth and/or desired treatment outcome requires pulling teeth, interproximal reduction, or performing other procedures that cannot be achieved with aligners. To perform the assessment, the provider may access a provider portal with a web interface similar to the web interface shown inFIGS. 29A and 29B. Features of the provider portal are also described below in connection withFIGS. 30A-30E. In block1330, the application server1102determines whether the provider approved the images. If not, the method1300may loop back to block1314, in which the application server1102receives additional images from the user device1106. If the provider approved the images, the method1300advances to block1332, shown inFIG. 24B.

Referring now toFIG. 24B, in block1332the application server1102provides 3D image data for the user's mouth to the dental lab1110. The application server1102may use any technique to provide the data, for example by transferring data over the network1112to a server or other computing device of the dental lab1110. The 3D image data may be generated using any appropriate technique. In some embodiments, in block1334the application server1102provides data generated during a 3D optical scan, which was received by the application server1102as described above in connection with block1310. In some embodiments, in block1336the application server1102provides data generated based on impressions created using the dental impression kit10, which was scheduled for delivery as described above in connection with block1312. In some embodiments, the dental impressions themselves may be provided to the dental lab1110, and the dental lab1110may generate the 3D image data based on the impressions (and/or on the images provided by the user). After receiving the 3D image data, the dental lab1110may use typical dental software to generate a treatment plan.

After the dental lab1110creates the treatment plan, in block1338the application server1102receives the treatment plan generated by the dental lab1110. The treatment plan may be embodied as any data indicative of a series of steps used to correct or otherwise modify the positions of the user's teeth. In particular, the treatment plan may represent the user's teeth and how they move through the duration of the treatment plan. The treatment plan may be directed to the user's upper teeth, lower teeth, or both upper and lower teeth. In block1340, the application server1102receives a 3D model of the user's mouth and teeth for each step of the treatment plan. Thus, the treatment plan may indicate the position of the user's teeth as they are modified over the course of treatment. The 3D models of the treatment plan may be embodied as STL files, OBJ files, or any other data file that is indicative of a three-dimensional object and/or scene.

In block1342, the application server1102optimizes the treatment plan 3D models to render on the user device1106. The application server1102may perform optimization to reduce the size of corresponding data files or to otherwise improve rendering performance on the user device1106. One potential embodiment of a method for optimizing the treatment plan 3D models is described below in connection withFIG. 25.

After optimizing the treatment plan 3D models, in block1344the application server1102provides the treatment plan to the provider for approval. For example, the application server1102may establish a provider portal web site that is accessible by the provider device1108. Because the treatment plan may include personal health information, the application server1102may restrict access to the provider portal or other user interfaces to authorized users (e.g., authorized providers). Using the provider portal, the provider may review 3D images of the steps of the treatment plan, and may approve the plan, reject the plan, request modifications to the plan, or otherwise review the treatment plan. One potential embodiment of a user interface for the provider portal is described below in connection withFIGS. 30A-30E. In block1346, the application server1102determines whether the provider has approved the treatment plan. If not, the method1300loops back to block1332, in which the dental lab1110may modify the treatment plan or otherwise generate a new treatment plan. If the treatment plan is approved, the method1300advances to block1348.

In block1348, the application server1102provides a visualization of the treatment plan to the user. For example, the application server1102may establish a user portal web site that is accessible by the user device1106. Because the treatment plan may include personal health information, the application server1102may restrict access to the user portal or other user interfaces to the authorized user. The visualization may allow the user to view the 3D models of the user's mouth and teeth for each step of the treatment process from multiple angles. As described above in connection with block1342, the 3D models of the treatment plan are optimized for rendering by the user device1106, which provides the user with a responsive user interface. As described above, the application server1102may establish an account for the user, and an account status user interface may provide access to the treatment plan visualization user interface. One potential embodiment of an account status user interface is described below in connection withFIG. 32. One potential embodiment of a treatment plan visualization user interface is described below in connection withFIG. 33.

In block1350, the application server1102determines whether the user has purchased the approved treatment plan. The user may purchase the treatment plan, for example, through an account user interface provided by the application server1102to the user device1106. If the user has not purchased the approved treatment plan, the method1300loops back to block1348, in which the application server1102may continue to provide the visualization of the treatment plan to the user. If the treatment plan is purchased, the method1300advances to block1352.

In block1352, one or more aligners are manufactured for the treatment plan and distributed to the user. Any appropriate technique may be used to manufacture and distribute the aligners. For example, the aligners may be manufactured by 3D printing physical models of the user's teeth and then molding plastic aligners using the physical models of the user's teeth. Multiple aligners may be distributed to the user each month. For example, the user may be sent three aligners each month, with the first aligner to be worn for one week, the second aligner to be worn for one week, and the third aligner to be worn for two weeks. During the manufacturing and distribution process, the application server1102may coordinate access to order information, the treatment, plan, and other data associated with the user. In block1354, it is determined whether the treatment plan is complete. For example, a treatment plan may have a duration of five months. If the plan is not complete, the method1300loops back to block1352to continue manufacturing and distributing aligners. If the plan is complete, the method1300may advance to block1356, in which one or more retainers may be manufactured and distributed to the user. In some embodiments, the application server1102may perform a check-in process after a predetermined amount of time has elapsed during treatment, for example a 90-day check in process. As part of the check-in process, the patient may answer a questionnaire and submit photos that are reviewed by a dental professional. Thus, the application server1102may monitor the progress of the patient during treatment. One potential embodiment of a user interface for the check-in progress is shown inFIGS. 37A-37D. The method1300may loop back to block1356to continue manufacturing and distributing retainers, or in some embodiments may be completed. It should be understood that the method1300illustrates techniques for remote orthodontic treatment and assessment for a single user; it should be understood that the application server1102may execute multiple instances of the method1300for multiple users.

Referring now toFIG. 25, in use, the application server1102may execute a method1400for 3D model optimization. The method1400may be executed, for example, in connection with block1342of the method1300, described above in connection withFIG. 24B. It should be appreciated that, in some embodiments, the operations of the method1400may be performed by one or more components of the environment1200of the application server1102as shown inFIG. 23. The method1400begins in block1402, in which the application server1102optimizes the 3-D models of a treatment plan.

Referring now toFIG. 26, a user interface1500for a smile assessment is shown. The user interface1500may be used to receive a smile assessment response as described above in connection with block1302ofFIG. 24A. The illustrative user interface1500is a web page provided by the application server1102to the user device1106; however, it should be understood that the user interface1500may be embodied as native application, managed application, or other interface of the user device1106. As shown, the user interface1500includes multiple input elements1502that allow the user to provide information regarding current condition of the user's mouth and the user's chief complaint. The user interface1500includes a submit button1504that, when selected by the user, provides the smile assessment response to the application server1102. In some embodiments, the user interface1500may include additional input elements1506(not shown) to collect additional information, such as user contact information, account information, or other information.

Referring now toFIG. 27, a user interface1600for account status is shown. The illustrative user interface1600is a web page provided by the application server1102to the user device1106; however, it should be understood that the user interface1600may be embodied as native application, managed application, or other interface of the user device1106. The user interface1600may be used to display the status of the user's account, including indicating additional information required from the user or otherwise indicating the next step to be performed by the user. For example, the illustrative user interface1600indicates that the user still needs to upload photos. The user interface1600includes a button1602that, when selected by the user, launches a user interface for uploading the photos. It should be understood that the user interface1600may include information and/or actions for other steps, such as scheduling a 3D scan appointment, reminding the user of a 3D scan appointment, indicating that images were received and are being reviewed, indicating that a treatment plan is being created, or other status information.

Referring now toFIGS. 28A-28C, a user interface1700for uploading images of the user's mouth and teeth is shown. The user interface1700may be used to receive images from the user device1106as described above in connection with block1314ofFIG. 24A. The illustrative user interface1700is a web page provided by the application server1102to the user device1106; however, it should be understood that the user interface1700may be embodied as native application, managed application, or other interface of the user device1106. As shown, the user interface1700includes instructions1702,1706,1710and corresponding submit buttons1704,1708,1712for the three images that are used for photo assessment. In particular, the instructions1702and submit button1704shown inFIG. 28Aare for an upper, open view; the instructions1706and submit button1708shown inFIG. 28Bare for a lower, open view; and the instructions1710and submit button1712shown inFIG. 28Care for a straight-on, closed view. The user interface1700further includes a button1714to cause the user device1106to move on to the dental history questionnaire.

Referring now toFIGS. 29A-29C, a user interface1800for a dental history questionnaire is shown. The user interface1800may be used to receive a dental history questionnaire response as described above in connection with block1322ofFIG. 24A. The illustrative user interface1800is a web page provided by the application server1102to the user device1106; however, it should be understood that the user interface1800may be embodied as native application, managed application, or other interface of the user device1106. As shown, the user interface1800includes multiple input elements1802that allow the user to provide information regarding the user's dental history. The user interface1800also includes a submit button1804that, when selected by the user, provides the dental history questionnaire response to the application server1102. Referring now toFIGS. 29D-29E, another potential embodiment of a user interface1800for a dental history questionnaire is shown.

Referring now toFIGS. 30A and 30B, a user interface1900for photo assessment review is shown. The user interface1900may be used to provide data to the staff professional/hygienist and to receive approval as described above in connection with blocks1322,1324ofFIG. 24A. The illustrative user interface1900is a web page provided by the application server1102to the staff device1104; however, it should be understood that the user interface1900may be embodied as native application, managed application, or other interface of the staff device1104and/or application server1102. Additionally or alternatively, in some embodiments the user interface1900may be embodied as an embedded view within a staff portal user interface provided by the application server1102.

As shown inFIG. 30A, the user interface1900includes multiple indicator elements1902for the different views. Each indicator element1902may indicate whether the image for the associated view has been approved, rejected, or is pending review. As shown, the user interface1900includes indicator elements1902for seven potential views, including the three views described above in connection withFIGS. 27A-27C, as well as four additional views that may be requested for complex cases. The user interface1900further includes an image thumbnail1904for the selected view (which is illustratively a line drawing but could include a photographic image) and a popup list1906used to approve or reject the selected image. The user interface1900includes a submit button1908that, when selected by the staff professional/hygienist, provides the approval to the application server1102. The user interface1900also includes a view1910, shown inFIG. 30B, that displays the dental history questionnaire response for the user. The staff professional/hygienist may review data displayed in the view1910when performing the photo review.

Referring now toFIGS. 31A-31E, a user interface2000for a provider portal is shown. The user interface2000may be used to allow a provider to perform a photo assessment, review a treatment plan, or otherwise interact with a user's case. The illustrative user interface2000is a web page provided by the application server1102to the provider device1108; however, it should be understood that the user interface2000may be embodied as native application, managed application, or other interface of the provider device1108. As shown inFIG. 31A, the user interface2000may include a case listing view2002. The case listing view2002may include a case summary view2004for each user assigned to or otherwise associated with the provider. Selecting a case summary view2004may cause the provider device1108to display a corresponding case detail view2006, shown inFIGS. 31B-31E.

The case detail view2006may include a tabbed interface with multiple sub-views, including a patient treatment plan view2008, shown inFIG. 31B. The patient treatment plan view2008may provide information on the treatment plan, the user's chief complaint, and the photo assessment, and may also allow the provider to initiate evaluation of the treatment plan and the photo assessment. The case detail view2006also includes an action box2010, which includes buttons to allow the provider to approve or reject the treatment plan. As shown inFIG. 31C, the case detail view2006may include a form and record view2012, which may display images (including treatment plan images and/or photo assessment images) and other documents for the provider to review. As shown inFIG. 31D, the case detail view2006may include a case inbox view2014that displays communications relevant to the user's case that are managed by the application server1102. As shown inFIG. 31E, the case detail view2006may include a lab view2016that displays information for the dental lab1110assigned to the case.

Referring now toFIG. 32, a user interface2100for account status is shown. The illustrative user interface2100is a web page provided by the application server1102to the user device1106; however, it should be understood that the user interface2100may be embodied as native application, managed application, or other interface of the user device1106. The user interface2100may be used to display the status of the user's account, including indicating additional information required from the user or otherwise indicating the next step to be performed by the user. For example, the illustrative user interface2100indicates that the user's treatment plan is completed and ready for viewing. The user interface2100includes a button2102that, when selected by the user, launches a user interface for viewing the treatment plan. The user interface2100also includes a button2104that, when selected by the user, launches a user interface to purchase aligners for the treatment plan. The user interface for purchasing the aligners may collect account information, payment information, and perform other e-commerce functions as described above.

Referring now toFIG. 33, a user interface2200for viewing a 3D treatment plan is shown. The user interface2200may be used to view the treatment plan as described above in connection with block1348ofFIG. 24B. The illustrative user interface2200is a web page provided by the application server1102to the user device1106; however, it should be understood that the user interface2200may be embodied as native application, managed application, or other interface of the user device1106. As shown, the user interface2200includes a 3D model view2202that displays the 3D model of the treatment plan. As described above in connection with block1342ofFIG. 24B, the 3D model may be optimized for efficient viewing on the user device1106. The user interface2200also includes a button bar2204that allows the user to switch between particular views of the 3D model and a slider2206that allows the user to switch between particular phases of the treatment plan. For example, the illustrative user interface2200displays a five-month treatment plan, and the slider2206allows the user to display a 3D model for each month of the treatment plan.

Referring now toFIGS. 34A-34F, a user interface2300for a staff portal is shown. The user interface2300may be used to store and manage all data relating to a particular user's case. Thus, the user interface2300may be used as an interface to a secure electronic medical records repository provided by the application server1102. The illustrative user interface2300is a web page provided by the application server1102to the staff device1104; however, it should be understood that the user interface2300may be embodied as native application, managed application, or other interface of the staff device1104and/or the application server1102. The illustrative user interface2300shown inFIGS. 34A-34Fillustrates one potential embodiment of the documents and other data that may be stored for each user by the application server1102. As shown inFIGS. 34A-34F, the user interface2300includes multiple views, with each view allowing access to part of the data associated with a particular user's case. As shown inFIG. 34A, the user interface2300may include a case link view2302, a prescription view2304, a treatment plan revision view2306, and an order view2308. The treatment plan revision view2306may track changes made to the treatment plan during the provider's review process, as described above in connection with blocks1332to1346ofFIG. 24B, and the prescription view2304may be populated after the provider has approved a treatment plan. As shown inFIG. 34B, the user interface2300may include a case detail view2310, which includes details on the user's contact information, payment information, case status, and also includes links to the user's photo assessment and other information. As shown inFIG. 34C, the user interface2300may include a journal view2312, which records events related to the user's case. As shown inFIG. 34D, the user interface2300may include a journal entry view2314, which allows a staff professional or other person to enter events into the journal for the user's case. Each journal entry may be restricted by audience (e.g., staff, provider, user, or other audience). As shown inFIG. 34E, the user interface2300may include a case message view2316, which records all messages sent via the application server1102concerning the user's case. The messages may be exchanged, for example, between the provider, staff, and/or the dental lab1110for a case. As shown inFIG. 34F, the user interface2300may include a case file view2318and a case document view2320. The views2318,2320may provide an interface to secure storage for all images, treatment plans, consent forms, and other documents related to a user's case.

Referring toFIGS. 35-37, another embodiment of a dental tray200includes a substantially arched mouth insert202that is sized and shaped to be inserted into the user's mouth. Particularly, the insert202is sized and shaped to be received into either an upper portion or a lower portion of the user's mouth. The insert202includes a cavity204defined by a bottom wall206and a pair of sidewalls208extending upward from the bottom wall206. The cavity204is sized to receive the putty mixture. When the dental tray200is inserted into the user's mouth, the user bites down on the dental tray200so that the user's teeth are within the cavity204and bite into the putty mixture. A flange210extends from a front of the dental tray200. The flange210is configured to be gripped by the user to insert and remove the dental tray200from the user's mouth.

Referring toFIG. 39, an appointment management system3100is shown. The appointment management system3100includes a computing system3102, a mobile device3116of a user3104, a personal computer3118of the user3104, and a plurality of intraoral scanning sites3106.

The computing system3102includes a processor3108and memory3110. Processor3108may be a general purpose or specific purpose processor, an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), one or more field programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), a group of processing components, or other suitable processing components. Processor3108may be configured to execute computer code or instructions stored in memory3110or received from other computer readable media (e.g., CDROM, network storage, a remote server, etc.) to perform one or more of the processes described herein. Memory3110may include one or more data storage devices (e.g., memory units, memory devices, computer-readable storage media, etc.) configured to store data, computer code, executable instructions, or other forms of computer-readable information. Memory3110may include random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), hard drive storage, temporary storage, non-volatile memory, flash memory, optical memory, or any other suitable memory for storing software objects and/or computer instructions. Memory3110may include database components, object code components, script components, or any other type of information structure for supporting the various activities and information structures described in the present disclosure. Memory3110may be communicably connected to processor3108via processing circuit3112and may include computer code for executing (e.g., by processor3108, etc.) one or more of the processes described herein.

The memory3110is described below as including various circuits3112. While the exemplary embodiment shown in the figures shows each of the circuits3112as being separate from one another, it should be understood that, in various other embodiments, the memory3110may include more, less, or altogether different circuits3112. For example, the structures and functions of one circuit3112may be performed by another circuit3112, or the activities of two circuits3112may be combined such that they are performed by only a signal circuit3112. Additionally, it should be understood that any of the functionalities described as being performed by a circuit3112that is a part of the memory3110may also be performed by a separate hardware component having its own processors, network interfaces, etc.

As shown inFIG. 39, the appointment management system3100includes one or more communications device(s)114. The communications device(s)114can be or include components configured to transmit and/or receive data from one or more remote sources. For instance, each of the intraoral scanning site(s)106may include a respective communications device3114, the user3104may have one or more communications device(s)114embodied on the user's104mobile device3116, personal computer3118, etc., and/or the computing system3102may include a communications device3114. Each of the respective communications devices3114may permit or otherwise enable data to be exchanged between the user3104, the intraoral scanning site(s)106, and/or the computing system3102. The communications device3114may communicate via a network3120. The network3120may be a Local Area Network (LAN), a Wide Area Network (WAN), a Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN), an Internet Area Network (IAN) or cloud-based network, etc. In some implementations, the communications device(s)114may access the network3120to exchange data with various other communications device(s)114via cellular access, a modem, broadband, Wi-Fi, satellite access, etc.

In some implementations, the user3104may access a website (or other network-based portal) associated with the appointment management system3100. The user3104may book an appointment at an intraoral scanning site3106on the website. The user3104may be directed to the website through, for instance, an advertisement on the user's104social media account. Additionally or alternatively, the user3104may search for (e.g., on the internet, etc.) the website associated with the appointment management system3100.

Additionally or alternatively, the user3104may receive a message directing them to the website to book an appointment at an intraoral scanning site3106. The processor3108may control the communications device3114to send the message to the user3104in response to various conditions. For instance, the processor3108may determine that the user3104previously signed up to receive an in-home dental impression kit and never returned the completed kit. The processor3108may identify a time between an order date (or shipment date) of the dental impression kit and the current date. The processor3108may compare the identified time to a threshold time indicative of the user3104likely not returning impressions from the dental impression kit. Where the identified time exceeds the threshold time, the processor3108may automatically generate and send the message to the user3104. As another example, the processor3108may determine that the impressions received from the user3104were, for instance, incomplete. A technician may review the impressions (or a scan thereof) to determine their suitability for manufacturing dental aligners. When the impressions are determined to be incomplete, the technician may flag the impressions as incomplete. When the impressions are flagged, the processor3108may automatically generate and send the message to the user3104prompting the user to schedule an intraoral scan.

The website may include a home page, an instructional page detailing how the customer aligner process works, a results page, a locations page, and/or additional or alternative pages. Each of these pages may present different information to the user3104. For instance, the home page may present information pertaining to an overall user experience. The instructional page may present a step-by-step overview starting from an appointment to receiving customized aligners. Additionally, the instructional page may present a video to the user3104. The video may include graphics and/or text that show how the customized aligners reposition the user's104teeth, among other information. The video may also show the user3104what to expect upon arrival at their appointment location, should they choose to book an appointment. The results page may include before-and-after pictures (or a rolling video of before-and-after pictures) of previous users who have used aligners to reposition their teeth. The locations page includes locations associated with each of the respective intraoral scanning sites3102.

Referring now toFIG. 39andFIG. 40, the user3104may access the locations page of the website. Specifically shown inFIG. 40is a reservation page3200which may be a portion of the locations page or a portion of the home page.

In some embodiments, the computing system3102may include a scheduler3122. The scheduler can be or include instructions that, when executed by the processor3108, cause the processor3108to generate and/or manipulate pages and displays for scheduling an appointment at an intraoral scanning site3106. While shown as embodied on memory3110of the computing device3102, in some implementations, the scheduler3122may be separate from the computing device3102. For instance, the scheduler3122may be located remotely from the computing device3102. In instances such as these, the scheduler3122may have a separate processor3108and memory3110(a dedicated processor and memory, for example). A user3104may schedule an intraoral scan at a particular intraoral scanning site3106via the website. The website may be controlled by the processor3108using instructions from the scheduler3122. Following the intraoral scan, the user3104may, in some instances, order aligners that are customized for the user3104. For instance, the user3104may be satisfied with the overall process at the intraoral scanning site3106and results of other users3104. Therefore, the user3104may purchase aligners for aligning the user's104teeth. The aligners may be constructed of a polymer material, such as Polyethylenterephthalat-Glycol Copolyester (PET-G), which is thermoformed to positive molds (or models) of the user's104dentition at various intervals between a starting position and an ending position. The positive molds of the user's dentition3104may be generated based on the treatment plan. The aligners may be used by the user3104in stages to move the user's teeth towards the ending position. For example, the user3104may be directed to wear a first aligner during a first month, a second aligner during a second month, a third aligner during a third month, and so on for a treatment period. These aligners may be shipped to the user3104following production of the aligners (e.g., at a fabrication site which generates or otherwise produces the aligners). In some instances, the aligners may be shipped in stages, all at once in one box, etc. Each of the aligners may be administered by the user in a predetermined sequence and for a predetermined duration. For instance, a first aligner (which corresponds to a starting position of the user's teeth) may be administered by the user for a duration (e.g., a month, 90 days, etc.), a second (and additional intermediate) aligner(s) may be administered by the user for the same duration, and a final aligner may be administered for the same duration. Each of these aligners may move the user's teeth from the starting position to one or more intermediate positions, and from the one or more intermediate positions to the final positions based on the treatment plan.

As shown inFIG. 40, the reservation page3200includes locations3202, dates3204, and times3206. Included in the locations3202is information corresponding to each of the intraoral scanning site(s)106. While each of the intraoral scanning site(s)106are shown as included, in some embodiments, only a subset of intraoral scanning site(s)106may be shown. For instance, the intraoral scanning site(s)106which are located nearest to the user3104may be shown. As one example, the processor3108may receive data from a communications device3114associated with the user3104(e.g., the mobile device3114, personal computer3118, etc.). The data may include location-based data associated with the user3104. The processor3108may use this data to select, from each of the intraoral scanning site(s)106, a subset of intraoral scanning site(s)106to include in the locations3202. As another example, the user3104may be prompted to provide a zip code. The processor3108may use the zip code provided by the user3104to determine intraoral scanning site(s)106that are located nearest to (or within) the zip code.

In some implementations, a user3104may search for specific locations3202(instead of selecting ones that are nearest to the user's104location). The user3104, for instance, may be traveling to a different city than their city of residence and may want to schedule an appointment at an intraoral scanning site3106located in that different city. As a result, the user3104is not limited to scheduling appointments at intraoral scanning sites3106in their own city, but may schedule appointments at any of the intraoral scanning sites3106. In implementations such as these, the user3104may provide a zip code that is different from their current zip code (e.g., the zip code associated with the city to which they are traveling).

In still other implementations, one or more of the intraoral scanning sites3106may be a mobile intraoral scanning site3106. For instance, the mobile intraoral scanning site3106may be implemented in a vehicle (e.g., an automobile, a truck, a van, a bus, etc.), as part of a kiosk (e.g., located within another store or within a shopping mall), or comprise a pop-up location in operation for only a limited time period (e.g., one day, one week, one month). The mobile intraoral scanning site3106may be included in the locations3202on the reservations page3200. As will be described in further detail below, a user3104may be able to arrange for the mobile intraoral scanning site3106to travel to a set location (e.g., a location set by the user, such as their home or place of business), and the user3104may receive an intraoral scan at the set location.

Upon selecting a location3202of an intraoral scanning site3106from the list of locations3202of intraoral scanning sites3106, the user3104may select an available date from the list of dates3204. Each intraoral scanning site3106may maintain a schedule3124. The schedule3124may be maintained locally (e.g., at each respective intraoral scanning site3106, etc.) and communicated to the computing system3102. The scheduler3122can include instructions to access the schedule3124of the intraoral scanning site3106selected by the user3104and determine available days/times for an appointment for the user3104based on the schedule3124for the intraoral scanning site. The scheduler3122can include instructions to display available times and dates for the intraoral scanning site3106based on the schedule3124associated with the intraoral scanning site3106. Additionally or alternatively, the schedule3124may be a cloud-based schedule that is remotely accessible by the processor3108and by the respective intraoral scanning site3106. In implementations such as these, the memory3110may store intraoral scanning site data3126corresponding to each respective intraoral scanning site3106. The intraoral scanning site data3126may be stored in a database3128within memory3110. The intraoral scanning site data3126may include a location3130associated with the intraoral scanning site3106(or other information usable to identify a particular intraoral scanning site3106) and a corresponding schedule3132for the intraoral scanning site3106. The scheduler3122can include instructions to determine the schedule for the selected location3202of the intraoral scanning site3106by cross-referencing data for the selected location3202with location3130within the intraoral scanning site data3126. Following cross-referencing the data for the selected location3202, the scheduler3122can include instructions to identify the schedule for the corresponding selected location3202.

In each of these arrangements, the scheduler3122can include instructions to identify available appointment times for the intraoral scanning site3106. These available appointment times may be presented to the user3104for selection and booking an appointment.

As shown inFIG. 40, the intraoral scanning site(s)106may have extended hours (e.g., open nights, weekends, etc.). In implementations such as these, the user3104may be more likely to schedule an appointment when the hours are extended due to a lessened likelihood of a scheduling conflict between the user3104and a given intraoral scanning site3106.

The processor3108may access the schedule3124,3132for the selected location3202to determine available dates via the instructions from the scheduler3122. The processor3108may display the available dates in the list of dates3204. Following a selection of an available date from the list of dates3204, the times available for the selected date may be displayed to the user3104. The processor3108may determine the available times in the same manner in which the available dates are determined. The user may select an available time to book their scan from the list of available times3206.

While described herein as the user first selecting a location, in some embodiments, the user may first select a preferred date and/or time and available locations (and/or dates and locations) may then be displayed based on the selected preferred date and/or time (and/or dates and locations). In each of these implementations, the user3104may reserve a time at a particular intraoral scanning site3106, and at the reserved time, the user3104may arrive at the particular intraoral scanning site3106and receive their intraoral scan, as will be discussed in further detail below.

In some implementations, the user3104may select the mobile intraoral scanning site3106. In implementations such as these, the processor3108may identify a schedule3124,3132associated with the mobile intraoral scanning site3106using instructions from the scheduler3122. The user3104may request a date3204and time3206that is available for the mobile intraoral scanning site3106. The user3104may then provide a location to arrange the appointment with the mobile intraoral scanning site3106. The mobile intraoral scanning site3106may have a predetermined radius (e.g., 10 miles, 20 miles, 25 miles, 50 miles, etc.) within which the mobile intraoral scanning site3106operates. The user3104may provide a location within the predetermined radius. At the reserved time, the mobile intraoral scanning site3106may be driven to the location provided by the user3104. The user3104may similarly arrive at the provided location at the reserved time and receive an intraoral scan, as will be discussed in further detail below.

Referring now toFIG. 41, following the user3104selecting an available time3206(e.g., as shown inFIG. 40), the scheduler3122can include instructions to direct the user3104to a booking screen3300. At the booking screen3300, the user3104may be prompted to provide various personal information3302(e.g., first and last name, a phone number, an e-mail address, etc.). Additionally, the user3104may be prompted to opt into (or not opt into) a messaging service by selecting box3304. The messaging service may provide one or more messages to the user3104concerning the user's104booked appointment, as will be discussed in further detail below. The personal information3302and data corresponding to whether the user3104opted into the messaging service may be stored in database3128in a user file3134. The user file3134may be a file associated with the user3104and may include various types of data associated with the user3104. The user file3134may be subsequently used for generating messages to the user3104before and/or after the user's104appointment. The user file3134may also include the intraoral scan, the treatment plan, progress information, photographs, etc.

As shown inFIG. 41, the appointment may be free to the user3104. In some implementations, the appointment may have a flat fee (e.g., $25, $95, etc.). In still other implementations, the appointment may have a booking hold which is not charged to the user3104. Following the user3104providing their personal information, the user3104may be prompted to book their scan by selecting button3306.

Referring now toFIG. 42, when the user3104books their scan by selecting button3306(ofFIG. 41), the scheduler3122can include instruction to direct the user3104to a holding page3400. At the holding page3400, the user3104may be prompted to provide credit card information3402. The credit card information3402may be requested to hold the available time selected by the user3104(e.g., as selected on reservations page3200). The credit card information3402may be used to place a hold (for instance, $25) on the user's104credit card. In some implementations, the hold may be a refundable hold (e.g., the credit card for the user3104is not billed or is refunded unless the user3104does not show up for their appointment at the selected time).

In some implementations, the hold may be optional. For instance, the user3104may be able to hold the reservation (through selection of button3404) or opt out of holding the reservation (through selection of button3406). The user3104may provide their credit card information3402and select button3404. In selecting prompt3404, confirmation window3500may be displayed to the user3104(e.g., indicating that the user's104reservation has been confirmed). Additionally, the user3104may not provide their credit card information3402, and instead, opt out by selecting button3406. In some implementations, selecting button3406may direct the user3104back to the reservations page3200. In other implementations, selecting button3406may cause confirmation window3502to be displayed to the user3104(e.g., indicating that the user's104reservation is still confirmed despite the user3104not providing credit card information3402). By providing credit card information3402, the user3104may be more likely to show up for their appointment, despite their credit card never being charged.

In one or more embodiments, following the user3104reserving (and optionally holding) their appointment, the user3104may want to reschedule their appointment. To do so, the user3104may call the intraoral scanning site3106to reschedule their appointment. Additionally, the user3104may go onto the website associated with the appointment management system3100, provide log-in information or other identifying information to look-up their appointment and access, for instance, a user portal (as will be discussed in greater detail below). The user portal may include various appointment-related information including the time, date, and location for their appointment. Following the user's appointment, the user portal may include various treatment plan information (such as a virtual representation of the user's104treatment plan at different stages or a simulated representation of the user's104teeth through progression of the treatment plan), progress information provided by the user3104, etc., as will be discussed in greater detail below. The user3104may select their appointment and reschedule their appointment in substantially the same manner by which the user3104booked their appointment (e.g., by following the progression fromFIG. 40throughFIG. 42).

Referring back toFIG. 39, when the user3104opts into the messaging service (through selection of box3304ofFIG. 41), one or more messages may be automatically generated and communicated to the user3104(e.g., via respective communications device(s)114). For instance, the computing system3102may include a message generator3136. The message generator3136can be or include instructions that, when executed by processor3108, cause the processor3108to generate a message to communicate to the user3104. The message generator3136can include instructions to transmit the generated message to the user3104via, for instance, the communications device3114of the computing system3102to the communications device3114of the user's104mobile device3116and/or personal computer3118. The message generator3136can include instructions to identify a communications device3114associated with the user3104(e.g., by identifying the user file3134associated with the user3104). The message generator3136can include instructions to communicate the generated message to the user3104upon one or more conditions, as will be discussed in further detail below. Accordingly, the various messages described herein may be communicated to the user's104mobile device3116and/or the user's104personal computer3118. Various examples of messages will be discussed in turn below.

In some implementations, one or more messages that are generated via the message generator3136may be communicated to a notification center3138. The notification center3138may be, for instance, a call center. The messages that are communicated to the notification center3138may be instructions to call a particular user3104at a particular time to deliver a verbal message, as will be discussed in further detail below.

In some embodiments, the message generator3136can include instructions for generating an appointment confirmation message. The message generator3136can include instructions to determine when a user3104has successfully reserved an appointment. The message generator3136can include instructions to automatically communicate (e.g., via respective communications devices3114) the appointment confirmation message in response to the user3104successfully reserving the appointment. The appointment confirmation message may be or include a message that indicates that the user's104appointment has successfully been reserved. In some implementations, the appointment confirmation message may include a link, which the user3104may select, that causes the appointment to be automatically added to a calendar associated with the user3104. For instance, the appointment confirmation message may include a plurality of links associated with different types of calendar software. The user3104may select the link corresponding to whichever type of calendar that is used by the user3104. Upon selecting the appropriate link, the appointment may automatically be added to the user's104calendar. The appointment added to the user's104calendar may include contact information associated with the corresponding intraoral scanning site3106, a location associated with the intraoral scanning site3106, time, and an expected duration of the appointment (e.g., 30 minutes).

In some embodiments, the message generator3136can include instructions for generating one or more appointment reminder messages. The message generator3136can include instructions to determine a current time and an appointment time (e.g., the time of the user's104appointment at the intraoral scanning site3106). The message generator3136can include instructions to compare a time difference between the current time and appointment time to a threshold time. If the difference in time is less than (or equal to) the threshold time, the message generator can include instructions to automatically generate the appointment reminder message.

In some implementations, the threshold time may be set based on a number of days (e.g., two days, three days, a week, etc.) until the user's104appointment. In implementations such as these, the appointment reminder message may be a message reminding the user3104that they have an upcoming appointment. The appointment reminder message may be generated when the user3104books an appointment well in advanced. Accordingly, where the user3104books an appointment for a number of days in advanced that is less than a threshold number of days (e.g., two days, three days, a week, etc.), the appointment reminder message may not be generated. As one non-limiting example, the user3104may book an appointment on a Monday. Where the user3104books the appointment for the next Friday, the user3104may be reminded of their appointment through generation of an appointment reminder message on the upcoming Wednesday. However, where the user3104books the appointment for the next day (e.g., Tuesday), the user3104may not receive an appointment reminder message. The appointment reminder message that is communicated to the user3104may include various information including, for instance, directions to the intraoral scanning site3106, a phone number for the intraoral scanning site3106, etc. Additionally, the appointment reminder message may include various information pertaining to the user's104appointment. For example, the appointment reminder message may include a health and consent questionnaire for the user3104to fill out. In some implementations, the health and consent questionnaire may have a plurality of Yes/No questions corresponding to various health-related conditions. The responses to the questions may be defaulted to “No”, whereby the user3104may only need to change those answers to the questions that do apply to the user3104. Referring briefly toFIG. 45, the user3104may be shown several questions which are defaulted to “No”. The user3104, however, may have an impacted tooth and an indicator on the health and consent questionnaire for an impacted tooth is defaulted to “No”. Accordingly, the user3104may maintain all defaulted answers except for the question relating to impacted teeth, which the user3104may switch to answer “Yes.” Such arrangements may expedite the overall process for the user's104experience at the intraoral scanning site3106. As another example, the appointment reminder may include before-and-after pictures for previous customers (e.g., similar to those described above with reference to the results page). Such arrangements may increase excitement and anticipation of the appointment for the user3104.

In some implementations, the threshold time may be set based on a location of the user3104(e.g., as determined based on data provided by the user's104mobile device3116and/or personal computer3118) with respect to the location of the intraoral scanning site3106. In implementations such as these, the appointment reminder message may be a message reminding the user3104to leave for their appointment. The threshold may be determined based on factors in addition to the location of the user3104including, for instance, a distance between the respective locations, traffic between the respective locations, weather, time of day, day of the week, etc. The appointment reminder message that is communicated to the user3104may include various information including, for instance, directions to the intraoral scanning site3106, a phone number for the intraoral scanning site3106, etc.

In some implementations, the message generator3136may include instructions to generate multiple appointment reminder messages. For instance, the message generator3136may generate a first appointment reminder message to remind the user3104that they have an upcoming appointment and a second appointment reminder message to indicate to the user3104that they should leave for their appointment (e.g., now, in 15 minutes, in one hour, etc.).

In some embodiments, the message generator3136can include instructions to identify specific users3104for voice messages. For instance, where the user3104does not provide credit card information3402(thus opting out of reserving the appointment), such information may be stored in the user file3134. Where the user3104does not provide credit card information3402, the message generator3136can include instructions to generate a prompt for a voice message to communicate to the notification center3138. The prompt may instruct a person at the notification center to initiate a telephone call with the user3104, in which the user3104will be informed about the overall process and experience at the intraoral scanning site3106, and the user3104may provide one or more concerns regarding their smile. The call may be initiated by the person at the notification center a certain number of days prior to the user's104appointment (e.g., three days, five days, etc.). The person may annotate (or record) the conversation, and portions thereof may be saved to the user file3134. In embodiments such as these, the voice message may increase user3104excitement for the appointment and increase the likelihood that the user3104shows up for their scheduled appointment.

Referring now toFIG. 39andFIG. 44, upon arrival at the intraoral scanning site3106, the user3104may be presented with a user device3600. The user device3600may be a tablet, for instance. The user3104may be requested to provide personal information3602(e.g., similar to the personal information3302) for accessing the user file3134. The processor3108may retrieve the user file3134associated with the user3104and check the user3104into their appointment. Where the user3104does not show up within a predetermined timeframe (e.g., at the start time of their appointment, within five minutes after the start time, 10 minutes after their start time, etc.) the processor3108may automatically indicate the user3104did not show up for their scheduled appointment. The processor3108may compare a time difference between the current time and the appointment start time to a predetermined timeframe. If the time difference exceeds the predetermined timeframe, the processor3108may automatically indicate the user3104did not show up for their scheduled appointment in the user file3134. Additionally or alternatively, a receptionist may indicate that the user3104did not show up for their appointment in the user file3134. In some embodiments, the message generator3136can include instructions for automatically generating a message to send to the user when the user is late for their appointment beyond a predetermined time frame (for instance, five minutes late). The message may ask the user to respond with whether they still plan on having an intraoral scan conducted, indicate that they do not need an appointment to receive their scan, prompt them to reschedule, etc.

In some instances, the intraoral scanning site3106may include a screen (e.g., of a television or other display system) that displays before-and-after pictures of customers who previously used aligners. The before-and-after pictures may be similar to those described above with reference to the results page. The before-and-after pictures may be displayed on a rolling basis. In instances such as these, consumer confidence may be increased by observing historical results.

Referring now toFIG. 39andFIG. 45, the user file3134may include the health and consent questionnaire. Where the health and consent questionnaire was previously filled out by the user3104(e.g., as it was received in an appointment reminder message), the health and consent questionnaire may be saved to the user file3134. However, where the health and consent questionnaire was not previously filled out by the user3104(e.g., the user3104never filled the questionnaire out or the questionnaire was never provided to the user3104), the user3104may fill out the health and consent questionnaire via the user device3600. In some embodiments, where the user3104switches an answer, a comment box is automatically generated and displayed to the user3104prompting the user3104to provide further details. For instance, where the user indicates that they are experiencing pain in their teeth, a comment box is automatically generated and displayed on the display of the user device3600. The user may provide an input, via the comment box, to elaborate on the pain in their teeth. While two examples of when the health and consent questionnaire are provided (e.g., following a reservation and following an appointment check-in but prior to the intraoral scan), the health and consent questionnaire may be provided to the user3104to complete at any time throughout the scanning process after they arrive at the scanning location, such as during a break in procedures, following completion of the intraoral scan, etc. Accordingly, the present disclosure is not limited to any particular arrangement regarding when the health and consent questionnaire is completed by the user3104.

As shown inFIG. 45, the user device3600may present the health and consent questionnaire to the user3104. As discussed above, the health and consent questionnaire may have a plurality of Yes/No questions corresponding to various health-related conditions. In some implementations, at least some of the questions for the health and consent questionnaire may be defaulted to a set response. For instance, the health-related questions for the questionnaire may be defaulted to “NO”, whereas the consent-related questions for the questionnaire may be defaulted to “YES”. In other instances, all of the questions may be defaulted to “NO”. The user3104can modify the responses to all the questions as needed. For instance, the user3104may have bridgework and a question inquiring about whether the user3104has bridgework is defaulted to “No”. Accordingly, the user3104may maintain the default answers to all the questions except for the question pertaining to bridgework. The user3104may manually switch this answer to “Yes.” In each of these implementations, the user's104experience at the intraoral scanning site3106may be improved by expediting the health and consent questionnaire.

Following check-in and providing the responses to the health and consent questionnaire, the user3104may be directed to a room where the user3104will receive their intraoral scan. A technician at the scan shop3106may administer the intraoral scan. The technician may administer the intraoral scan using, for instance, an iTero® scanner. As the technician administers the intraoral scan, the intraoral scanner may produce data which is visually represented on a display. The data may correspond to a three-dimensional scan of the user's104mouth. In some embodiments, the technician may administer the intraoral scan in a predetermined position. For instance, the technician may be instructed to administer the intraoral scan from over the user's104shoulder with the display in the field of view of the user3104. Accordingly, as the intraoral scanner generates data that is visually represented on the display, both the user3104and technician may be able to observe the display. Such arrangements and instructions may enhance the user's104experience by engaging the user3104in the scanning process.

In some embodiments, the administration of the intraoral scan may be recorded for quality assurance purposes. For instance, the room in which the user3104has the intraoral scan administered may have a camera. The user3104may approve or deny the recording. In some instances, the user3104may be incentivized to approve the recording by, for instance, one free set of aligners or one free set of retainers.

In some embodiments, the user3104may be shown a simulated movement of the user's teeth from the starting position (e.g., as represented by the three-dimensional scan) to a simulated final position. Such capabilities presently exist through use of the iTero® scanner.

Following administration of the intraoral scan, in some embodiments, a quality control technician may review and approve the intraoral scan. The quality control technician may be located at the intraoral scanning site3106. Additionally or alternatively, the quality control technician may be located remotely. The quality control technician may be a manager or other guide who has the authority to approve (or not approve) the intraoral scan. Where the quality control technician does not approve of the intraoral scan, the quality control technician may highlight particular areas on the intraoral scan that need to be re-scanned. The quality control technician may also approve some or all of the information provided by the user3104(e.g., the personal information3302, the health and consent information provided in the health and consent questionnaire, various other information such as shipping information, etc.). In implementations such as these, the quality control technician may ensure that subsequent visits to the intraoral scanning site3106or unnecessary calls to the user3104are avoided by collecting all necessary information during a single appointment of the user3104.

In some embodiments, following administration of the intraoral scan, the technician may take one or more photographs of the user's104mouth. The technician may take the photographs of the user's104upper and lower jaw (in some instances with a smile spreader). The technician may take a head-on photograph of the user's104smile. The technician may take the one or more photographs using a digital camera. Additionally or alternatively, the technician may take the one or more photographs using a camera of the user device3600. In each of these implementations, the photographs may be an initial set of photos that is used for compliance checks. The photographs may be saved to the user file3134.

Once the quality control technician approves of the intraoral scan (and photographing), the user3104may leave the room where the user3104received their intraoral scan. The user may go to, for instance, a waiting area or front desk area. At the front desk area, the user3104may be shown or given various products. For instance, the user3104may be shown what the aligners generally look like (e.g., substantially transparent, translucent, etc.). The user3104may also be shown the packaging in which the aligners are delivered and the corresponding instruction manual. The user3104may be provided with various dental-related items. For instance, the user3104may be provided with lip balm, teeth whitening kits, a tote bag, etc. Each of these examples may further increase the likelihood of the user3104purchasing aligners that are custom to the user's104teeth. In some embodiments, instead of receiving products at a front desk area, the user3104may be shown or given various products in the room where they received the intraoral scan. In some embodiments, the user3104may be shown the aligners/packaging prior to receiving the intraoral scan (e.g., at check-in), during a break, etc.

In some embodiments, the user3104may be presented with a fast track option for generating a set of aligners from the intraoral scan. The fast track option may be a form that is filled out by the user3104, may be an oral agreement from the user, etc. The fast track option may authorize a provider of the aligners to automatically generate the aligners once the treatment plan (or the final teeth position) for the user3104is approved by a doctor (e.g., a dentist, an orthodontist, etc.).

The user3104may be prompted to pay at the time of the intraoral scan (or set up a payment plan at the time of the intraoral scan). Once the user3104pays (or sets up the payment plan), the user3104may authorize fast tracking the generation of the aligners. In implementations such as these, the user3104may not be required to authorize the treatment plan. Rather, the treatment plan may be shown in the user portal, as will be discussed in greater detail below. Additionally, once the treatment plan is approved by the doctor, the treatment plan may be automatically used for generating the aligners and automatically uploaded to the user portal.

In some embodiments, the doctor (e.g., the dentist, orthodontist, etc.) may approve of the treatment plan following the doctor seeing the user via a video conference or a video of the user. For instance, the doctor may “see” the user remotely prior to approving the treatment plan. In still other embodiments, the doctor may approve of the treatment plan without the video conference or the video of the user. In each of these embodiments, the doctor may approve of the treatment plan for the user without having to physically see the user in person. Accordingly, the user may not be inconvenienced with a trip to a doctor's office, which may also save time for the user.

Where the user3104does not authorize fast tracking the generation of the aligners, the user3104may authorize the treatment plan once the treatment plan is sent to the user3104via the user portal. Following authorization of the treatment plan, the aligners may be generated and sent to the user3104. Additionally, following authorization of the treatment plan, the user3104may then be prompted to pay for the aligners (or sign up for a payment plan).

In some embodiments, the treatment plan may be generated by a dental professional using a computing system at a treatment plan site. The treatment plan site may be separate from the intraoral scan sites, the fabrication site, etc. In other embodiments, the treatment plan site may be the same as the intraoral scan site and/or the fabrication site. Accordingly, two or more of these sites may be consolidated into one site.

The treatment plan may be generated by manipulating individual teeth in the three-dimensional representation of the user's mouth. For instance, the dental professional may manipulate one or more teeth of the user's mouth (as represented in the three-dimensional data) from a starting position (at the time of the intraoral scan) to an ending position (following treatment). Following the teeth being moved to the ending position, the treatment plan may automatically be generated (e.g., by a computer or computing system) in accordance with a set of rules. The set of rules may include rules which constrict an amount of movement of a single tooth between two sequential aligners (for instance, 3.00 mm). Following the treatment plan being generated, various models (e.g., positive molds of the user's dentition) may be generated which correspond to the position of the teeth at various intervals between the starting and ending position. The aligners may then be generated by thermoforming a polymer material to each of the various models (with a first aligner corresponding to the starting position of the user's teeth in the user's dentition, the second [and subsequent] aligner corresponding to an intermediate position[s], and the final aligner corresponding to the final position of the user's teeth in the user's dentition).

Following generation of the aligners, all aligners associated with the treatment plan may be sent to the user3104. In some implementations, the aligners may be generated and sent to the user3104in packaging similar to the packaging described in U.S. Patent Application Ser. No. 62/522,847, filed on Jun. 21, 2017, titled “DENTAL IMPRESSION KITS AND METHODS THEREFOR,” U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/725,430, filed on Oct. 5, 2017 and having the same title, and U.S. Patent Application Ser. No. 62/648,229, filed on Mar. 26, 2018 and having the same title, each of which are incorporated by reference in their entirety as noted herein.

Following the user3104having their intraoral scan administered at the scan shop3106, the user3104may receive one or more messages generated via the message generator3136. Accordingly, in some embodiments, the message generator3136can include instructions for generating and communicating one or more messages to the user3104following the user's104appointment.

In some implementations, the message generator3136can include instructions to generate a message including various surveys and/or questionnaires. These surveys may be used for evaluating the user's104experience at the intraoral scanning site3106. In some implementations, the surveys may solicit the user3104for a review on a customer review website such as Yelp®, Google®, etc. Additionally, where the user3104receives a whitening kit at their appointment, the message generated via the message generator3136may include whitening tips for the user3104. In each of these implementations, the messages generated via the message generator3136may be used as feedback for subsequent user's appointments, and to enhance the experience for the user3104.

In some implementations, the message generator3136can include instructions for generating various messages specifically when a user3104does not attend their appointment. For instance, when the user file3134indicates the user3104did not show up for their appointment, the message generator3136can include instructions for automatically generating a message including a survey for evaluating reasons why the user3104did not showed up for their appointment. The survey generated in these implementations may solicit the user3104to provide suggestions of what the intraoral scanning site3106(or website) could do differently. The survey generated in these implementations may also solicit the user3104to provide information as to how the user3104would like to be contacted in the future (e.g., via phone call, text message, email, etc.). In some instances, the message generated via the message generator3136may include an indication to the user3104that the user3104does not require an appointment for an intraoral scan and that the user can show up at an intraoral scanning site3106any time during business hours (e.g., that walk-ins are welcome). In each of these implementations, the messages are provided to the user3104when the messages may increase the likelihood of the user3104scheduling or otherwise visiting the intraoral scanning site3106, and may assist in improvements to the overall experience for other users.

Additionally, where the user3104misses their appointment, in some instances, the user3104may be provided a free at-home impression kit (similar to those described in U.S. Patent Application Ser. No. 62/522,847 and U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/725,430). The at-home impression kit may be sent to the user3104via first class mail. For instance, when the user file3134indicates the user3104did not show up for the appointment, the message generator3136can include instructions to automatically generate a message to the user3104that indicates that an at-home impression kit will be sent at no charge to the user3104. Additionally, the message generator3136can include instructions to generate a prompt that is transmitted to, for instance, a processing or shipping warehouse. The prompt may include an address or shipping label and instructions to send an at-home impression kit to the user3104at the address.

Referring now toFIG. 39andFIG. 46, a user portal is generated for the user3104. Specifically shown inFIG. 46is an example user portal3800associated with the user3104. The example user portal3800shown inFIG. 46is generated prior to the user's104appointment. The appointment management system3100may include a portal manager3140. The portal manager3140may be or include instructions, that when executed by the processor3108, cause the processor3108to generate/modify/change/manage one or more aspects of the user portal3800. As shown, the user portal3800may include a brief overview of what to expect at the user's104appointment. The user portal3800may include a button3802to reschedule the user's104appointment. The button3802may direct the user3104to a page similar to reservation page3200. Additionally, the user portal3800may include a button3804to view a Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) page providing answers to questions that the user3104may have.

Referring now toFIG. 39andFIG. 47, the portal manager3140may include instructions to modify the user portal3800following the user's104appointment. For instance, as shown inFIG. 47, the user portal3800is generated following the user's104appointment. The user portal3800shown inFIG. 47may include a visual representation (shown as a video) of the user's104treatment plan. The visual representation may show changes in the user's104smile as the user3104progresses through various stages of the treatment plan. The visual representation may be a series of photos, a video, etc. The user3104may be able to view the visual representation through selection of a button3900(e.g., play button).

Additionally, the user3104may be required (or requested) to provide progress information. As will be discussed in greater detail below, the progress information provided by the user3104may be used for evaluating compliance and issuing a mid-course correction.

The user3104may select a button3902for providing progress information. The user3104may be required to provide progress information at various stages along the treatment plan. For instance, the user3104may be required to provide progress information at the outset of the treatment plan, as each aligner is used, following 90 days from the outset of the treatment plan, and/or other stages in the treatment plan. In some implementations, the appointment management system3100may issue reminders to the user3104for providing the progress information. For instance, the message generator3136and/or portal manager3140can include instructions to automatically generate one or more messages to communicate to the user3104at various points throughout the treatment plan. As one example, when the aligners are received by the user3104(e.g., as detected by a delivery notification), the delivery notification may be indicated in the user file3134. When the user file3134indicates the delivery notification, the message generator3136and/or portal manager3140can include instructions to automatically generate one or more messages for the user3104instructing the user3104to provide initial progress data. When uploaded, the portal manager3140can include instructions to store the initial progress data in the user file3134as a baseline. The message generator3136and/or portal manager3140may include instructions to generate subsequent messages reminding the user3104to upload progress data at various stages of the treatment plan, as described above. The message generator3136and/or portal manager3140can include instructions to identify a send date upon which the message corresponding to the initial progress data was communicated to the user3104. Additionally, the message generator3136and/or portal manager3140can include instructions to identify a current date. Based on a difference between the send date and the current date, the processor3108may generate subsequent messages based on the instructions from the message generator3136(and/or portal manager3140). Similarly, the message generator3136and/or portal manager3140can include instructions to generate messages directing the user3104to change which aligners they are using (e.g., directing the user3104to stop using a first set of aligns and to instead use a second set of aligners, directing the user3104to stop using a third set of aligners and instead use the second set of aligners, to stop using the aligners altogether and to wait for new aligners to be sent to the user3104, etc.). Such messages may be generated similar to the messages for providing progress data.

Referring now toFIG. 39andFIG. 48, upon selection of button3902, the portal manager3140can include instructions to direct the user3104to a progress tracker page4000within the user portal3800. Within the progress tracker page4000, the user3104is prompted to indicate which aligner the user3104is currently using (e.g., through selection of a corresponding button4002). Additionally, the user3104is prompted to upload photos of the user's104smile. The user3104may be instructed (e.g., either on the user portal3800, the progress tracker4000, or separate instruction manual) on how to capture photos. For instance, the user3104may be instructed to capture photos while using a smile spreader (e.g., a device positioned in the user's104mouth intended to push back the user's104lips and expose a greater area of the user's104teeth). The user3104may be instructed to position the smile spreader in the user's104mouth and capture images at various angles. The user3104may be instructed to capture an image of the user's104teeth head-on while biting down. The user3104may be instructed to capture an image of the user's104lower jaw while opening the user's104mouth. The user3104may be instructed to capture an image of the user's104upper jaw while opening the user's104mouth. The user3104may be instructed to capture additional/alternative images of the user's104teeth. Each of these images may be uploaded by the user3104using button4004. Upon selection of button4004, the user3104may be prompted to search for and locate the image to upload. The image may be previewed (e.g., in display box4006) once the user3104locates the file. The user3104may then select an upload button4008to upload the images to the user portal3800. When the images are uploaded, the portal manager3140can include instructions to automatically add these images to the user file3134.

The user3104may provide comments regarding the progress or fit of the aligners in comments box4010. For instance, the user3104may indicate that the user3104is not satisfied with the progress of realigning the user's104teeth or how the user's104smile looks. As another example, the user3104may indicate that the aligners do not fit or are uncomfortable. Each of these indications may indicate that the user3104may require a mid-course correction. As used herein, a mid-course correction is defined as a new treatment plan developed for the user3104following an indication that the current treatment plan is no longer desirable for the user3104. Accordingly, the user3104receives a new intraoral scan, a new set of aligners, etc. In this regard, no cross-reference is made between the first treatment plan and the second treatment plan. However, in some implementations, the mid-course correction comprises receipt of at least one new set of aligners, which may be created for the user3104following new intraoral scan or new impressions to be made of the user's104teeth. In some implementations, the mid-course correction may be free to the user3104. For instance, as discussed below, the mid-course correction may be free following a compliance check indicating that the user3104is correctly following the treatment plan.

The compliance check may be a review of the progress data provided by the user (e.g., via progress tracker4000). In some implementations, following the user3104uploading any comments via comments box4010, the portal manager3140may include instructions to automatically flag the user file3134and communicate the file to a professional terminal3142. The professional terminal3142may be a computer associated with one or more professionals (e.g., doctors, dentists, orthodontists, etc.). The professional terminal3142may display the user file3134including the images uploaded by the user3104and the current aligner which is being used by the user3104. The user file3134may be evaluated by the professionals to determine whether the user3104is progressing according to the treatment plan, whether the user3104is following the treatment plan as instructed, etc. Where the user3104is not following the treatment plan as instructed, the user file3134may be flagged as not being in compliance. Where the user3104is following the treatment plan but is not progressing according to the treatment plan, portal manager3140may flag the user file3134for a mid-course correction. Where the user file3134is flagged as not being in compliance, the user3104may be required to pay for the mid-course correction. However, where the user3104is following the treatment plan, the mid-course correction may be offered to the user3104for free.

In some implementations, when the user3104is following the treatment plan as instructed and progresses through the treatment plan, the message generator3136and/or portal manager3140may include instructions to automatically generate a message (and corresponding flag in the user file3134) indicating that the user3104is eligible for a free dental check-up and cleaning at a dental clinic or associated dental office.