PubMed2006
OBJECTIVE: To realize the requirement of adjacent area accuracy, axial surface physical contour and smoothness in the process of inlay computer-aided design (CAD). METHODS: A compromised method was brought forward that some assistant 3-D constraint lines from occlusion to gingiva were used to lead the inlay contour on axial corner and other characterized areas, and two perpendicular 3-D constructing lines at adjacent area were used to construct accurate 3-D configuration of this area. The axial surface was completely defined by the network of specified curves which were two constructing lines and four borders. RESULTS: Inlay axial surface was smooth, the contour was consistent with the residual tooth body and the 3-D configuration in adjacent area was accurate. CONCLUSION: It is feasible to realize the inlay axial surface accuracy, smoothness, and consistency using the method of special distributed 3-D B-Spline curve network.