Visualization of Tooth Eruption in CT-Scans

Three-dimensional image analysis and visualization techniques are useful for studying the complicated growth process of the mandible and the eruption of the teeth. To get an impression of the growth, we aim to make an animation of the growth process of the mandible and the teeth. We present a longitudinal study of one patient. CT-scans were made of the patient at four different ages. The mandibles were aligned accordingto stable anatomical structures, the teeth were modeled, and the long-term process was visualized. We used a parametric description for the position and developmental state of a tooth, which was determinedmanually, and we performed a feasibility study for improving automatization in determining the parameters of the teeth. Finally, these parameters were interpolated and the growth and eruption sequence was animated. The resulting computer application enables a vivid three-dimensional impression of tooth eruption, which can be viewed from any viewpoint.