title: Computer-aided design of tooth preparations for automated development of fixed prosthodontics.
abstract: BACKGROUND
  This paper introduces a method to digitally design a virtual model of a tooth preparation of the mandibular first molar, by using the commercial three-dimensional (3D) computer-aided design software packages Geomagic and Imageware, and using the model as an input to automatic tooth preparing system.
  
  
  METHODS
  The procedure included acquisition of 3D data from dentate casts and digital modeling of the shape of the tooth preparation components, such as the margin, occlusal surface, and axial surface. The completed model data were stored as stereolithography (STL) files, which were used in a tooth preparation system to help to plan the trajectory. Meanwhile, the required mathematical models in the design process were introduced.
  
  
  RESULTS
  The method was used to make an individualized tooth preparation of the mandibular first molar. The entire process took 15min.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Using the method presented, a straightforward 3D shape of a full crown can be obtained to meet clinical needs prior to tooth preparation.
authors.affiliation: Center of Digital Dentistry, Peking University School and Hospital of Stomatology & National Engineering Laboratory for Digital and Material Technology of Stomatology & Research Center of Engineering and Technology for Digital Dentistry, Ministry of Health, 22 Zhongguancun Nandajie, Haidian District, Beijing, PR China.
authors.forename: Fusong
authors.initials: F
authors.lastname: Yuan
authors.affiliation: Center of Digital Dentistry, Peking University School and Hospital of Stomatology & National Engineering Laboratory for Digital and Material Technology of Stomatology & Research Center of Engineering and Technology for Digital Dentistry, Ministry of Health, 22 Zhongguancun Nandajie, Haidian District, Beijing, PR China.
authors.forename: Yuchun
authors.initials: Y
authors.lastname: Sun
authors.affiliation: Center of Digital Dentistry, Peking University School and Hospital of Stomatology & National Engineering Laboratory for Digital and Material Technology of Stomatology & Research Center of Engineering and Technology for Digital Dentistry, Ministry of Health, 22 Zhongguancun Nandajie, Haidian District, Beijing, PR China.
authors.forename: Yong
authors.initials: Y
authors.lastname: Wang
authors.affiliation: Center of Digital Dentistry, Peking University School and Hospital of Stomatology & National Engineering Laboratory for Digital and Material Technology of Stomatology & Research Center of Engineering and Technology for Digital Dentistry, Ministry of Health, 22 Zhongguancun Nandajie, Haidian District, Beijing, PR China. Electronic address: kqlpj@bjmu.edu.cn.
authors.forename: Peijun
authors.initials: P
authors.lastname: Lv
mesh_terms: D017267:Dental Prosthesis Design / Q000379:methods*; D006801:Humans; D021621:Imaging, Three-Dimensional; D008297:Male; D008334:Mandible / Q000473:pathology*; D008963:Molar / Q000473:pathology*; D012984:Software; D019231:Tooth Preparation, Prosthodontic / Q000379:methods*
keywords: Automation; CAD; Fixed prosthodontics; Mandibular first molar; Tooth preparation