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Digital casts in orthodontics: a comparison of 4 software systems
Anna Westerlund1, Weronika Tancredi2, Maria Ransjö3
1Associate professor, Department of Orthodontics, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden.
Summary
Digital orthodontic software usability is poor, requiring further development. OrthoCAD and O3DM are easier for new users, but all systems need improvement for optimal clinical integration.
Area of Science:
- Orthodontics
- Dental Technology
- Usability Engineering
Background:
- Digital cast models are increasingly integrated into orthodontic practices.
- Selecting appropriate digital software systems presents challenges for orthodontists.
- This study evaluates the service, features, and usability of four leading orthodontic software systems.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare four orthodontic digital software systems: Cadent (OrthoCAD), OthoLab (O3DM), OrthoProof (DigiModel), and 3Shape (OrthoAnalyzer).
- To assess the service, features, and usability of these systems for orthodontic applications.
- To identify strengths and weaknesses of each system to guide selection and development.
Main Methods:
- Service information was gathered via questionnaires and company websites.
- Software features were analyzed through user manuals and program exploration.
- Usability was evaluated by interaction design experts using the enhanced cognitive walkthrough method with domain experts performing defined tasks.
Main Results:
- Company services were generally comparable across the four systems.
- All systems offered basic measurement capabilities, but advanced features like treatment simulation and digital articulation varied.
- Usability was a common weakness, though OrthoCAD and O3DM showed better learnability for novice users.
Conclusions:
- The overall usability of the evaluated orthodontic digital software is suboptimal and requires significant improvement.
- Hands-on training and expert supervision are recommended for beginners to effectively utilize these systems.
- Further development is needed to enhance user-friendliness and feature completeness in orthodontic digital software.
