The aims of this study were to evaluate palatal rugae patterns using three-dimensional (3D) digital models; to compare relevant digital model conversion techniques for identification;to develop a protocol for overlay registration;to determine changes in palatal rugae individual patterns through time and following orthodontic treatment;and to investigate the efficiency and accuracy of 3D matching processes between different individuals.Five cross sections in the anteroposterior dimension and four cross sections in the transverse dimension were used to compute eighteen 2D variables.Thirteen 3D...