Computerized algorithm for 3D teeth segmentation

Abstract

This paper presents the computerized segmentation algorithm on the 3D digital dental model for separating individual tooth using Borland C++ Builder <sup xmlns:mml="http://www.w3.org/1998/Math/MathML" xmlns:xlink="http://www.w3.org/1999/xlink">®</sup> and OpenGL. The purpose is to apply the algorithm in the 3D orthodontic diagnosis and treatment software package. The method consists of 5 main steps as follows. First the digital dental model is produced by 3D scanner in STL format and the occlusal plane is calculated. Second the arch form of the model is approximated. Third the panoramic of the dental cast in 3D system is constructed. Fourth, the 3D-panoramic is converted to 2D system to find the cutting points for segmentation of individual tooth, and finally the 2D image is converted back to 3D system for creating the vertical plane for separating teeth into difference colors at the cutting points. The result has shown that the 3D digital dental model can be segmented for separating individual tooth, and the algorithm is ready to apply in orthodontic diagnosis and treatment software package.