Occlusal Devices Automatically Designed by Using Different Artificial Intelligence-Based Programs: A Case Report

To describe the clinical workflow for obtaining intraoral scans, fabricating occlusal devices using different artificial intelligence (AI)-based programs, and delivering the devices.

Maxillary and mandibular scans of a completely dentate patient receiving a maxillary occlusal device were obtained using an intraoral scanner (Trios 5). The maxillomandibular relationship was obtained at two different positions: maximum intercuspal position (MIP) and 2-mm interocclusal opening achieved with a leaf gauge. The articulated scans were imported into four AI-based programs (Automate, Medit Night Guards, Relu Mouth Guards, and Sprintray Cloud Design) for automatic occlusal device design. One occlusal device was milled and additively manufactured from each design and subsequently delivered using a standardized protocol.

Substantial differences in occlusal device design, fit, and occlusal adjustments were observed among the AI-based programs evaluated. Standardization of intraoral data acquisition and design principles and parameters may be necessary to improve the reliability of AI-based occlusal device design. Further studies are needed to evaluate the accuracy, efficiency, and performance of AI-based programs for occlusal device fabrication.