Patent ID: 7273368

Claim:
A computerized method for comparing different orthodontic treatment plans, comprising: (a) providing a first, virtual three-dimensional (3D) image indicative of a 3D model of the teeth in a manner allowing manipulation of the model for viewing the model from a desired direction; (b) defining a two or more orthodontic treatment plan, each of which comprises: (i) selecting a virtual set of orthodontic components corresponding to those that may be used in an orthodontic treatment plan; (ii) associating the components with the teeth of said first image so as to obtain a second image of said three-dimensional model with said components associated therewith in a manner representing the manner in which said components and the teeth may be combined in said orthodontic treatment; and (iii) using a set of rules, including at least one rule, defining the manner in which said virtual set affects movement of the teeth, so as to obtain a third image comprising the teeth model after movement of the teeth affected by said components; (c) comparing the third images obtained for each of the treatment plans so as to determine the treatment plan that yields best treatment results.