Not a fan of braces? AI might just help straighten your teeth someday

Those who have struggled with braces already know how unpleasant the procedure can get. And, if that’s not enough, you might even have to put up with retainers after the course. But there might just be an AI solution for this in the near future that could bring a ‘smile’ to your face.

A new tool developed by the University of Copenhagen’s Department of Computer Science and a company 3Shape can potentially harness AI to straighten your teeth. Wondering how this may work? Read on for insight into the entire report.

AI to straighten teeth: Is it really possible?

As it turns out, yes! According to a report published about the tool, it is possible to stimulate exactly how braces should fit in without having to put a patient through a bunch of inconvenient procedures.

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The AI tool uses scanned imagery of teeth, along with bone structures of human jaws, to predict the design of your braces. The result can also tell how the design will benefit and help straighten the patient’s teeth.

AI for orthodontists: How will it work?

It is difficult to determine the movement of a tooth, simply because it varies from person to person. However, the AI tool will effectively tackle this and accurately predict its direction.

Further, the team has also introduced a different bracket, known as aligners, which will replace the traditional ‘braces’. Aligners are made out of plastic and will typically fit over your teeth. 

As a part of the procedure, patients will be required to wear these aligners for 22 hours a week. They will also be required to visit every two weeks to replace and swap them with a tighter set. 

Researchers have developed a computer model that will help create an accurate 3D simulation of a patient’s jaw. This can further be put to use by dentists and orthodontists for the most suitable treatment.

To create this map, a patient will have to go through a detailed CT scan of their jaw and teeth. Along with this, also the small, fine structures between the jawbone and the teeth, which are medically known as ‘periodontal ligaments’.

The digital imitation, also known as the ‘digital twin’, will not only be helpful for dentists but is also predicted to aid various other healthcare sectors in the future.