Abstract
The purpose of this study was to make plaster block using 3-dimensional system based on a hypothetical hexahedron model, measure the accuracy of them, and apply to make a mandible model for implant treatment. The application to the mandible model was suggested by measuring the accuracy of the made hexahedron model, and having obtained an excellent result.
On assumption of a hexahedron model, 20 x 30 x 40 mm on computer, data was input into the 3-dimensional system so that three different-sized hexahedron models were set by changing the size of base (x-axis and y-axis). A rectangular plaster block was prepared based on the output using 3-dimensional high-speed inkjet printer. Three lengths (x, y and z) of the hexahedron model were determined and compared with those of input data.
Each length of x-, y- and z-axis was examined for the three different plaster blocks prepared. The size difference in the horizontal direction (x- and y-axis) was not significant, but that in vertical direction (z-axis) was significant.
Although the size of plaster block was slightly larger in the vertical direction, we succeeded to prepare a jaw mold of almost the same size as the real one. The plaster jaw mold, which was prepared through output of imaging data obtained using 3-dimensional construction system for CT was in almost the actual size and able to directly look at a jaw from any angle, suggesting that the jaw mold was useful for choice of implant procedure and simulation of operation. Moreover, this would smoothly lead to patient's informed consent. These findings indicate that a plaster model constructed using CT would be very useful for implant treatments.
