Computed Tomography and a Dental Intraoral Scanner to Generate Three-Dimensional Models of the Beaks of Three Bird Species

TL;DR

This study uses CT scans and a dental scanner to create 3D models of bird beaks to help design prostheses for birds with maxillary avulsion.

Contribution

The study introduces a combined use of CT and dental scanning for 3D modeling of bird beaks to improve prosthesis design.

Findings

CT scans provided more detailed data compared to dental intraoral scanners for beak measurements.

Combining CT and dental scanning techniques is recommended for accurate beak prosthesis development.

Macroscopic and 3D imaging measurements showed variations across different bird species.

Abstract

Birds with avulsion of their maxillary portion may have difficulty prehending food and could benefit from the placement of a prosthesis. For the proper development of a prosthesis, it is important to understand the characteristics of the beak that needs to be reconstructed. Thus, the present study evaluated the beaks of Neotropical birds— parakeets, red-legged seriemas, and black vultures—using CT scans, a dental intraoral scanner, and macroscopic analysis. Beak length, width, and height were measured on 3D images from CT and the dental scanner, while macroscopic measurements were also conducted. Naris dimensions were assessed on 3D scans, and the area of the beaks in cm2 was calculated in a sagittal view using a closed polygon tool. Some variations between imaging methods were observed, with CT providing more detailed data. The combination of both techniques is recommended for the development of beak prostheses.

This study aimed to assess the beaks of Neotropical birds using two scanning techniques—CT and a dental intraoral scanner—along with macroscopic analysis. Six specimens per family were selected, including parakeets, red-legged seriemas, and black vultures. The upper beaks were measured in the CT sagittal view for length along the longitudinal axis and height on the transverse axis. The same measurements were performed on the 3D images. Additionally, beak width in the middle of the naris area, as well as the length and height of the nares, were measured on the 3D images. The closed polygon tool outlined the beak, generating volume in cm2. The 3D images obtained with the dental scanner were measured, similarly to those from 3D-CT scans for the beaks’ length, height, and width. Macroscopic measurements of the beaks were also conducted. Some differences in beak measurements between imaging methods were verified. In conclusion, both techniques are effective, but CT provides more detailed information. The combination of both methods would be ideal for developing and applying beak prostheses.

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