Comparative Validation of the Mixed and Permanent Dentition at Web-Based Artificial Intelligence Cephalometric Analysis

This retrospective study aimed to evaluate the difference in measurement between conventional orthodontic analysis and artificial intelligence orthodontic analysis in pediatric and adolescent patients aged 7 - 15 with the mixed and permanent dentition. A total of 60 pediatric and adolescent patients (30 mixed dentition, 30 permanent dentition) who underwent lateral cephalometric radiograph for orthodontic diagnosis were randomly selected. Seventeen cephalometric landmarks were identified, and 22 measurements were calculated by 1 examiner, using both conventional analysis method and deep learning-based analysis method. Errors due to repeated measurements were assessed by Pearson’s correlation coefficient. For the mixed dentition group and the permanent dentition group, respectively, a paired t-test was used to evaluate the difference between the 2 methods. The difference between the 2 methods for 8 measurements were statistically significant in mixed dentition group: APDI, SNA, SNB, Mandibular plane angle, LAFH (p < 0.001), Facial ratio (p = 0.001), U1 to SN (p = 0.012), and U1 to A-Pg (p = 0.021). In the permanent dentition group, 4 measurements showed a statistically significant difference between the 2 methods: ODI (p = 0.020), Wits appraisal (p = 0.025), Facial ratio (p = 0.026), and U1 to A-Pg (p = 0.001). Compared with the time-consuming conventional orthodontic analysis, the deep learning-based cephalometric system can be clinically acceptable in terms of reliability and validity. However, it is essential to understand the limitations of the deep learning-based programs for orthodontic analysis of pediatric and adolescent patients and use these programs with the proper assessment.