Accuracy of digital indirect bonding technology for customized orthodontic brackets based on personalized typodonts

The chief aim of this study was to confirm the accuracy and repeatability of digital indirect bonding (IDB) by simulating customized clinical orthodontic procedures with personalized typodonts from the perspective of orthodontic outcomes.

Five personalized typodonts were produced with 3D-printing technology to mimic straight-wire orthodontic procedures. The digital IDB was employed to position the customized brackets. After treatment, the PAR index, the ABO-OGS index and the occlusal contact area were analyzed. The matching degree between the target position and the posttreatment position on typodonts was assessed with Geomagic Control X.

The mean arch discrepancy between the personalized typodonts and the initial intraoral scan model was 0.15 mm ± 0.01 mm in the maxilla and 0.20 mm ± 0.01 mm in the mandible. Following customized orthodontic therapy, the PAR Index decreased from 29 to 1, the ABO-OGS Index was 13.8 ± 0.84, and the occlusal contact area increased 4.04mm² ± 1.14mm², with the bilateral occlusal contact area becoming equally distributed. The mean arch discrepancy between the target position and the actual posttreatment positions was 0.15 mm ± 0.01 mm in the maxilla and 0.16 mm ± 0.01 mm in the mandible.

Digital IDB is conducive to locating the brackets in the target position to precisely achieve the ideal therapeutic outcome of customized orthodontic systems on the personalized typodont. The customized bracket design and the digital IDB can lead orthodontics in a more accurate, visual, and predictable direction.