Study Models
Three-dimensional plaster or stone casts of a patient's teeth and arches used for diagnosis, treatment planning, and record keeping in orthodontics.
Full Definition
Study models (also called diagnostic models or dental casts) are physical or digital three-dimensional reproductions of a patient's dentition and surrounding tissues. They are created from impressions or intraoral scans and used for detailed analysis of tooth positions, arch form, occlusion, and space. They form a key part of orthodontic records at the start and end of treatment. Editors may encounter these referred to as 'plaster models', 'stone models', or 'digital models' depending on the method of fabrication. The plural form is standard; the singular 'study model' is rarely used.
Usage
Usage note: Always use the plural 'study models'. In digital workflows, 'digital models' or 'digital study models' are acceptable variants.
In Context
- "Pre- and post-treatment study models were submitted as part of the audit case documentation." — Clinical audit submission
- "Digital study models were obtained via intraoral scan at the initial records appointment." — Records appointment note