Method and apparatus for generating an orthodontic template that assists in placement of orthodontic apparatus

An apparatus for generating an orthodontic template that assists in placement of an orthodontic apparatus, the apparatus comprises:

• a processing module;
• and
• memory operably coupled to the processing module, wherein the memory stores operational instructions that cause the processing module to:
• (a) obtain a digital model of an orthodontic structure of an orthodontic patient;
• (b) obtain a selection of one of a plurality of orthodontic apparatuses for the orthodontic structure to produce a selected orthodontic apparatus;
• (c) obtain a digital model of placement of the selected orthodontic apparatus on the digital model of the orthodontic structure;
• and (d) generate the orthodontic template pertaining to a physical embodiment of at least a portion of the selected orthodontic apparatus based on the digital model of the selected orthodontic apparatus, the digital model of placement, and at least a portion of the digital model of the orthodontic structure.

A method for generating an orthodontic template that assists in placement of an orthodontic apparatus, the method comprises the steps of:

• a) determining at least one reference position within a digital model of an orthodontic structure of an orthodontic patient;
• b) determining a holding mechanism for a tooth mounting apparatus of a selected orthodontic apparatus, wherein the tooth mounting apparatus is for a given tooth of the orthodontic structure;
• c) determining a reference mounting mechanism based on the at least one reference position and the given tooth;
• and
• d) generating a design of the orthodontic template to include the holding mechanism and the reference mounting mechanism.

An apparatus for generating an orthodontic template that assists in placement of an orthodontic apparatus, the apparatus comprises:

• a processing module;
• and
• memory operably coupled to the processing module, wherein the memory stores operational instructions that cause the processing module to:
• (a) determine at least one reference position within a digital model of an orthodontic structure of an orthodontic patient;
• (b) determine a holding mechanism for a tooth mounting apparatus of a selected orthodontic apparatus, wherein the tooth mounting apparatus is for a given tooth of the orthodontic structure;
• (c) determine a reference mounting mechanism based on the at least one reference position and the given tooth;
• and (d) generate a design of the orthodontic template to include the holding mechanism and the reference mounting mechanism.