Methods: CT image files of three patients with impacted maxillary teeth were edited and input into Mimics software to produce 3D data of maxillary teeth, the maxillary bone, and sinus. The 3D digital models were then transferred to a rapid prototyping machine to produce the resin models. The models were used in diagnosis and treatment planning, and used to communicate with patients.
Results: The models showed the exact anatomical relationship between the impacted tooth and the surrounding structure; they were also the main aids in navigation during surgical and orthodontic treatment planning. According to diagnosis and treatment planning, one patient was treated by extracting the impacted canine; the second patient's ectopic impacted tooth 15 was extracted and transplanted to the right place; the third patient's treatment plan included surgical exposure and traction of impacted tooth 23.
Conclusion: The three-dimensional CT imaging procedure combined with rapid prototyping is an efficient auxiliary method in the diagnosis and treatment of impacted maxillary teeth.