Abstract: Methods and systems for making a computer model of a patient's jaws on the basis of digital information from computed tomography and non-radiographic digital imaging of the patient's teeth or dental casts of their teeth.

Abstract: A method is set forth for making a computer model of patient's jaws on the basis of digital information. Digital data about the jaws, teeth, soft tissues and artificial teeth is joined in computer space to create aesthetic and functional plans for the removal of teeth, shaping of supporting bone and placement of dental implants. Artificial teeth and pre-manufactured prosthetic devices are made and attached to the dental implants at the time of surgery. The aesthetic and functional position of artificial teeth is determined prior to surgical removal of natural teeth and the ideal position of implants and the proper form of the remaining bone are determined prior to surgery. Surgical guides used to shape bone, record occlusal orientation and position dental implants are manufactured using computer milling or layered manufacturing.

Abstract: A method is set forth for making a computer model of patient's jaws, face, teeth and removable dentures on the basis of digital information. Three dimensional digital data about the soft tissues, artificial teeth, supporting bone and position of nerves is combined in a virtual computer model to create an aesthetic and functional plan for the creation of surgical drill guides and the creation of new dentures and teeth. A key component of this method, the accurate positioning of dental casts in a physical articulator, is simplified using three dimensional virtual and physical measurements and movements. Surgical guides used to position dental implants are manufactured using computer milling, layered manufacturing or conventional laboratory techniques with the aid of mechanical tools that reproduce the position of the dental cast or digitally produced replica in the same orientation to the virtual implant position.