Comparison of automated grading of digital orthodontic models and hand grading of 3-dimensionally printed models.

Introduction: Emerging workflows in orthodontics enable automated analysis of digital models and production of physical study models from digital files for the evaluation of treatment outcomes. The objective of this study was to compare the automated assessment of digital orthodontic models and the hand grading of 3D-printed models with the use of the American Board of Orthodontics cast-radiograph evaluation (ABO CRE) system.

Methods: Plaster models from 15 cases were scanned with the use of a desktop model scanner to create digital models from which physical models were produced with the use of a stereolithography-based 3D printer.