Work

A novel machine-learning-based model for prediction of open gingival embrasures between mandibular central incisors after clear aligners treatment: a retrospective cohort study

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: OBJECTIVE: To develop a machine-learning-based model and construct a nomogram that integrates ClinCheck features and clinical risk factors for accurately predicting open gingival embrasures (OGE) between mandibular central incisors after clear aligner treatment (CAT). METHODS: treatment were enrolled. A ClinCheck model was developed based on predicted OGE-area in the final step from initial ClinCheck treatment plan. Twenty-three clinical features were extracted from electronic medical records and ClinCheck tooth movement metrics. Predictors were selected through Least Absolute Shrinkage and Selection Operator (LASSO) regression to establish a clinical model. Additionally, a nomogram incorporating ClinCheck features and clinical predictors was constructed via logistic regression and validated with bootstrap resampling. The performances of these models were evaluated through receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves, area under curves (AUC), and decision curve analyses (DCA). RESULTS: Six clinical features, including age, gingival papilla angle, interproximal reduction, crown morphology and two types of tooth movement, were selected through LASSO regression. The combined model that consisted of OGE-area and clinical features demonstrated superior predictive capacity (AUC: 0.880; 95% CI: 0.840-0.916), outperforming both clinical model (AUC: 0.815; 95% CI: 0.767-0.861; P < 0.001) and ClinCheck model (AUC: 0.860; 95% CI: 0.817-0.900; P < 0.05). The corrected C-statistic of the combined nomogram was 0.888, and the calibration curve exhibited great performance with a mean absolute error of 0.012. In the DCA curve, the combined model showed higher net benefit than the clinical model when the threshold probability exceeded 0.13, and higher than the ClinCheck model between 0.13 and 0.63. CONCLUSION: The integration of clinical features and ClinCheck in the machine-learning-based model demonstrated favorable predictive capabilities for OGE between lower central incisors. This comprehensive nomogram may contribute to precisely prediction and prevention of OGE in clinical practice.

Source: Progress in Orthodontics

DOI: 10.1186/s40510-025-00584-0

Authors: Guifeng Li, Feng Guo, Jun Chen, Houxuan Li, Lang Lei

Institutions: Nanjing University, Suzhou Vocational Health College

Language: English

Topic: Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics

Subfield: Orthodontics

Field: Dentistry

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,152