Role of Artificial Intelligence in Classifying and Archiving Orthodontic Images

In dentistry, imaging plays a crucial role in diagnosis, treatment planning, observing patient treatment outcomes, and facilitating communication between doctors and patients. Orthodontists are a branch of dentistry which deals with straightening of teeth and treating existing malocclusion. So, it’s highly dependent on data imaging. Imaging of data is required for clinical decision-making, evaluating teeth movement, and devising treatment plans. Treatment plans can have various options and selections based on clinical evaluation and patient records. Dr. Baxmann introduced the ABCD system® of treatment planning in LeanOrthodontics®. These can be helpful for decisions making however the treatment requires clear patient images.

Conventionally the images have been labeled as specific clinical features and stored manually in files. However, with advancements in digital dentistry, there has been a shift toward using digital archives and patient management systems for indexing and storing imaging data. This transition allows for easy retrieval of images, which enhances diagnostics, treatment planning, and ongoing monitoring. Let’s discuss in detail the role of AI in archiving digital images.

Benefits of AI for archiving images

1. Easy organization and retrieval

Images and photographs storage with the new AI tools is very convenient and organized. AI can automatically categorize and index images based on various criteria, such as patient information, treatment stages, and clinical features, making it easier to organize large volumes of data. It didn’t require a large space for the storage of all images and image analysis can be easy. It also helps to retrieve any required information from the stored data. Advanced search functionalities allow practitioners to quickly locate specific images or case histories, significantly reducing the time spent searching for information.

2. Interprofessional Collaboration

AI archiving systems enable the efficient sharing of dental images across different specialties. Specialists, such as orthodontists, periodontists, and oral surgeons. With the help of AI tools, the dentist can access and exchange imaging data instantly, regardless of their physical location. This capability eliminates the delays associated with traditional methods of sharing, such as physical records or email attachments, which may not maintain image quality.

Regular case review meetings become more productive with AI-driven archiving. Specialists can access the same set of images during discussions, allowing them to visualize the patient’s condition and progress in real-time. This collaborative environment fosters open dialogue, enabling specialists to share insights and recommendations based on their expertise.

Patient Education

Orthodontists can use AI-organized images to make clear and informative presentations for patients and their families. These presentations help explain complicated treatment processes, such as how braces work or what to expect during different stages of treatment. By using visuals, orthodontists can make these concepts easier to understand, helping patients feel more informed and involved in their care. It can also help to show patients clear images of their treatment progress over time. For example, they can display before-and-after pictures that illustrate how teeth have moved or improved. This visual evidence reinforces the treatment timeline and helps patients see the results of their efforts. It not only enhances their understanding of treatment but also motivates them to stick with their treatment plan.

Classification of Orthodontic Images Based on Deep Learning

Deep learning is a subset of artificial intelligence (AI) that uses neural networks to analyze large datasets. In the context of orthodontics, deep learning algorithms can be trained to recognize patterns in dental images, such as X-rays, photographs, and 3D scans. Images can be classified based on deep learning ad preprocessing, and postprocessing.
The first step involved in classification is gathering a diverse dataset of orthodontic images. This includes various conditions, treatments, and stages of dental development. Images that need to be labeled by dental professionals can help to identify key features such as malocclusions, tooth positions, and other relevant clinical characteristics. This annotated dataset serves as the foundation for training the deep learning model.

Preprocessing images

Preprocessing involves preparing raw images for analysis by a deep-learning model. This step is crucial for ensuring that the data fed into the model is clean, consistent, and suitable for training. Raw images may vary in size and resolution. Resizing images to a consistent dimension helps standardize the input for the neural network, ensuring that each image has the same shape.

Post-processing

Postprocessing is the improvement of the deep learning model’s output after it makes predictions. This stage ensures that the results are understandable and useful. In a multi-class classification scenario, postprocessing may involve converting the model’s output probabilities into class labels. This is typically done by selecting the class with the highest probability.
The role of artificial intelligence (AI) in classifying and archiving orthodontic images represents a significant advancement in dental care.

AI-based tools significantly reduce the workflows and administrative load on dental practitioners by enabling the smooth arrangement and retrieval of imaging data. The consistent interpretation of images is enhanced by this technology integration, which also encourages improved specialist collaboration and communication, which in turn results in more coordinated patient care.

References:

1. Li S, Guo Z, Lin J, Ying S. Artificial intelligence for classifying and archiving orthodontic images. BioMed Research International. 2022;2022(1):1473977.
2. Baxmann, M., & Gronau , K. (2024). Dr. Baxmann´s LEAN ORTHODONTICS® – The Ultimate Practice Book Series for excellent Orthodontics: Case Planning Volume 3. https://www.amazon.sg/Dr-Baxmann%C2%B4s-LEAN-ORTHODONTICS%C2%AE-Orthodontics/dp/3948361673