Accuracy of Automatic Tooth Segmentation via Three Different CAD/CAM Orthodontic Software Packages: A Comparative Assessment

Automatic tooth segmentation software presents variable degrees of inaccuracy, irrespective of crowding severity. The different software packages evaluated demonstrated varying levels of accuracy, with no clinically significant differences among them, except in a few cases. While most single-point discrepancies can be considered clinically irrelevant (< 0.1 mm), exceptions include the mesial, mesiogingival, and distogingival points. In contrast, discrepancies in central mesiodistal width often exceed 0.1 mm and tend to result in overestimated measurements. This overestimation can compromise the accuracy of interproximal reduction (IPR) during clear aligner therapy, potentially leading to excessive enamel removal. Regarding volume and area discrepancies, the automatic segmented teeth are generally oversized, without a significant clinical impact.