Development and feasibility of oral scanning OCT probe for subgingival margin detection

Abstract

This study confirms the possibility of image processing and clinical application technology of a tomographic intraoral scanner capable of tissue transmission for subgingival margin scanning and dental diagnosis. As a research method, we considered the techniques of silicon-based single-tooth sample fabrication, software and probe performance stabilization, repeatability test, resolution test, refractive index correction, margin imaging test by measurement angle, development of image editor tool, deep learning framework construction, image editing S/W, and image processing algorithm. The results of the study are as follows; First, the developed OCT probe is a high-precision cross-sectional imaging equipment-based technology that has a transmission depth that can measure margin in the subgingival, and when combined with intraoral scanners in the future, it is possible to produce customized crowns that minimize patient discomfort. Second, the application of this technology enables the production of crowns by non-invasive measurement of internal structure, reduces the possibility of transformation into subgingival phase, and improves aesthetics. Third, the development of ultra-small handpiece for intraoral scanning will provide efficiency and convenience of oral diagnosis through clinical feedback-based optimization design if the results of this study are integrated into the intraoral scanner by developing an optical system through MEMS (Micro-Electro Mechanical System) and a dichroic mirror. Fourth, intraoral scanning and extraction of margin information of subgingival using phantom can improve the efficiency and accuracy of subgingival margin measurement when producing tooth prostheses, and can efficiently improve the existing work model and the unnecessary process for impression subgingival margin detection. As described above, it is expected that the technical achievements obtained in the development of an OCT probe for intraoral scan for detection of subgingival margin can be accurately produced by measuring the depth of the subgingival margin after prep and obtaining accurate margin values in a non-contact and non-invasive way.