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Updated: Jul 5, 2026
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Measuring Maxillary Posterior Tooth Movement: A Model Assessment using Palatal and Dental Superimposition
Published on: February 23, 2024
Digital macro-photogrammetry in orthodontic tooth movement: case report.
P Hlongwa1, F G Sander, M Geiger
1Dept of Orthodontics, University of Limpopo, Medunsa Campus, South Africa. phlongwa@ul.ac.za
Summary
Digital macro-photogrammetry (DMP) effectively monitored canine retraction, a key orthodontic tooth movement. This 3D imaging technique offers a cost-effective, on-site solution for tracking treatment progress.
Area of Science:
- Orthodontics
- Biomedical Engineering
- Dental Imaging
Background:
- Assessing 3D tooth movement is crucial in orthodontics.
- Traditional methods can be time-consuming and costly.
- The Hybrid Retractor (HR) spring is used for canine retraction post-premolars extraction.
Observation:
- Digital macro-photogrammetry (DMP) was employed to capture canine movement.
- 3D coordinates (X, Y, Z) were generated from digital photographs.
- Measurements were taken from initial treatment (T0) to final canine retraction (T8).
Findings:
- Canine distalization averaged 6.78 mm over 258 days.
- Maximum canine movement velocity reached approximately 1 mm/month.
- DMP accurately tracked orthodontic tooth movement in a clinical setting.
Implications:
- DMP provides a viable, cost-effective method for monitoring orthodontic tooth movement.
- The technique integrates easily into existing orthodontic practices with digital photography.
- On-site measurements using DMP enhance clinical workflow efficiency.
