AI-Assisted Fusion Technique for Orthodontic Diagnosis Between Cone-Beam Computed Tomography and Face Scan Data

This study presents a deep learning-based approach that integrates cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) with facial scan data, aiming to enhance diagnostic accuracy and treatment planning in medical imaging, particularly in cosmetic surgery and orthodontics. The method combines facial mesh detection with the iterative closest point (ICP) algorithm to address common challenges such as differences in data acquisition times and extraneous details in facial scans. By leveraging a deep learning model, the system achieves more precise facial mesh detection, thereby enabling highly accurate initial alignment. Experimental results demonstrate average registration errors of approximately 0.3 mm (inlier RMSE), even when CBCT and facial scans are acquired independently. These results should be regarded as preliminary, representing a feasibility study rather than conclusive evidence of clinical accuracy. Nevertheless, the approach demonstrates consistent performance across different scan orientations, suggesting potential for future clinical application. Furthermore, the deep learning framework effectively handles diverse and complex facial geometries, thereby improving the reliability of the alignment process. This integration not only enhances the precision of 3D facial recognition but also improves the efficiency of clinical workflows. Future developments will aim to reduce processing time and enable simultaneous data capture to further improve accuracy and operational efficiency. Overall, this approach provides a powerful tool for practitioners, contributing to improved diagnostic outcomes and optimized treatment strategies in medical imaging.