Digital model planning and computerized fabrication of orthognathic surgery wafers

Abstract

Conventional orthognathic wafers are made by a process involving manual movement of stone dental models and acrylic laboratory fabrication. In addition, a facebow record and semi-adjustable articulator system are required for maxillary osteotomy cases. This paper introduces a novel process of producing both intermediate and final orthognathic surgical wafers using a combination of computerized digital model simulation and three-dimensional print fabrication, without the need for either a facebow record or the additional ionizing radiation exposure associated with cone beam computerized tomography.

Keywords:

• Orthognathic wafer
• orthodontic digital models
• 3D printing

Acknowledgments

The authors are grateful to Mr Simon Knibbs, at Byte APS Ltd, for his technical assistance with the software and CAD-CAM processes. They also appreciate the input of Wing Commander Andrew Gibbons, consultant Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon at Peterborough City Hospital, in the management of these orthognathic patients.