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Royal London space analysis: plaster versus digital model assessment
Balpreet Grewal1, Robert T Lee1, Lifong Zou2
1Oral Growth and Development, Institute of Dentistry, Bart's and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London.
European Journal of Orthodontics
|August 12, 2016
Summary
Digital models offer a valid and reliable alternative for dental space analysis, comparable to traditional plaster models. This supports their use in orthodontic treatment planning and justifying extractions.
Area of Science:
- Orthodontics and Dental Technology
- Digital Imaging in Dentistry
Background:
- Digital study models are increasingly important for orthodontic treatment planning.
- Accurate space evaluation is crucial for treatment planning and determining extraction needs.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the validity and reliability of the Royal London Space Analysis (RLSA) using digital models versus traditional plaster models.
Main Methods:
- A pilot study informed sample size calculation (n=30).
- The RLSA, including crowding, occlusal curve, arch dimensions, and incisor position, was performed on both plaster (gold standard) and digital models.
- Intra-operator reliability and validity (comparison with plaster models) were assessed.
Main Results:
- Measurement error (0.66–0.95mm) was comparable between digital and plaster models.
- Digital model measurements were slightly larger (0.35mm upper, 0.32mm lower arch) but not significantly different.
- No significant difference was found in RLSA results between the two model types.
Conclusions:
- The Royal London Space Analysis (RLSA) is equally effective whether performed on plaster or digital models.
- Digital space analysis is a valid and reproducible method, suitable for the current era of digital dental records.
