Research progress and clinical application of 3D image superimposition in orthodontics

The superimposition analysis of imaging data on the structure of craniomaxillofacial tissue at different time points of the same object is an important method for studying craniomaxillofacial growth and development, evaluating the efficacy of orthodontic treatment and orthognathic surgery. While overcoming the common shortcomings of traditional 2D imaging, 3D image superimposition provides more comprehensive craniomaxillofacial information and more accurate dental and bone data. Therefore, more and more scholars are validating and exploring the reliability and accuracy of 3D superimposition technology for clinical applications. This article reviews the 3D image data sources, superimposition methods, and clinical applications, to provide scientific research and clinical guidance for 3D image superimposition technology in orthodontics.