Optimization of microCT data processing for modelling of dental structures in orthodontic studies.

Dental studies evaluating microCT output often examine resolution as a parameter that affects the data, but many other factors can influence image quality. The objective of this paper is to present the issues involved with the optimization of microCT data acquisition and processing for two biomechanical animal models. The first model evaluates surface and volumetric changes in root structure after in vitro fatigue loading of dog incisors. The second evaluates the in vivo morphometric bone and tooth responses to application of orthodontic force in inbred and transgenic mice. This type of data required specific magnification and noise control microCT settings to segment and render objects with acceptable definition. The proposed procedures enabled high definition rendering of changes in tooth and bone morphology in orthodontic studies. They also allowed for the construction of solid models for finite element analyses.