Beyond the surface: A comparative study of intraoral scanners in subgingival configuration scanning

Dent Mater. 2024 Aug;40(8):1184-1190. doi: 10.1016/j.dental.2024.06.004. Epub 2024 Jun 8.

Abstract

Objectives: This study conducted a comprehensive comparative analysis of three intraoral scanners (CEREC Primescan, TRIOS, CEREC Omnicam) and a lab scanner (inEosX5) assessing their precision in simulating subgingival tooth preparations.

Methods: Utilizing a dental simulation mannequin with a 3D-printed resin structure, 100 structures with depths ranging from 0.5 to 4.0 mm were created within a square mimicking a rectangular tank surface. Four scanner groups (A-D) and five subgroups were established. Two digitization methods, a customized parallelometer and an intraoral simulation, were applied, ensuring a standardized scanning sequence. Trueness was evaluated by comparing CAD-calculated surface areas with actual dimensions, and qualitative trueness analysis was conducted using MeshLab. Surface areas were computed using the formula SA = 2lw + 2lh + 2wh. Statistical analyses, including Pearson's correlation coefficient, Kolmogorov-Smirnoff and Levene's tests, three-way ANOVA, and paired sample t-tests, elucidated relationships and differences (a=0.05).

Results: A robust correlation (r = 0.850, p < 0.001) between intraoral scanner choice and scanned area depth was found. Inverse correlations were noted for experimental methods. Three-way ANOVA demonstrated significant scanner-depth interaction (F(12,760) = 760.801, p < 0.001).

Significance: Emphasizing high-resolution sensors and advanced technologies, the study underscores the optimal choice for subgingival digitization, acknowledging variations among scanners.

Keywords: Accuracy; CAD/CAM; Margins; Restoration; Subgingival.

Publication types

  • Comparative Study

MeSH terms

  • Computer-Aided Design*
  • Humans
  • Imaging, Three-Dimensional
  • Manikins
  • Models, Dental
  • Printing, Three-Dimensional
  • Surface Properties