Abstract
Objectives
This study aimed to evaluate whether human error affects bracket position errors by comparing digital and analogue indirect bonding techniques with artificial intelligence.
Materials and Methods
36 intraoral models were divided into three groups. 10 brackets were placed in each cast (incisors, canines, and premolars). In automatic control group, brackets were placed according to the facial axis point automatically by Ortho Analyzer software. In manual digital group (MDG) brackets were placed by an operator, while in manual analogue group (MAG) brackets were placed on the plaster models. Models were digitally superimposed and compared with control models (3D slicer). The linear and angular measurements were analyzed with Mann-Whitney U-test and Chi-square test.
Results
Between the two techniques, there were statistically significant differences in vertical, tipping, torque, and rotation variables for incisors; in vertical and torque variables for canines. The error frequency showed that 81.1% of brackets in MDG were within clinically acceptable limits, whereas only 62.5% were accurate in MAG group. The prevalence of accuracy in MDG was higher in all variables except tipping.
Conclusions
Digital aids improved bracket position accuracy. Horizontal axis was the safest variable in MAG. Accuracy levels of torque and rotation parameters were the lowest for both groups.
Clinical Relevance:
Unlike premolars, positioning of incisors and canines requires special attention in analogue technique.