Accuracy of intraoral scanners for static virtual articulation: A systematic review and meta-analysis of multiple outcomes

Digital occlusal analysis of bite registration with anteroposterior inclined head positions

PURPOSE

This clinical study aimed to evaluate the effects of various head positions within physiological movement limits on occlusal contacts (OCs) in digital bite registrations (BRs) obtained using an intraoral scanner (IOS).

METHODS

This study included 36 individuals with natural dentition without missing teeth. Maxillary and mandibular scans were performed using an IOS (Trios4). The natural (NHP), forward (FHP), and backward (BHP) head positions were determined using a manual goniometer, and three BRs were obtained using an IOS. A new assessment method, the "digital occlusion analysis" module (oJMA, Zebris), was used to assess the OCs in these BRs. Dental arch scans and BRs were imported into the digital occlusion module. OC evaluation was performed on buccal-lingual cross-sections obtained at 1 mm intervals on the four left and right posterior teeth of the mandible. Each section was evaluated for the number, intensity, and location of OCs between pairwise comparison groups of head positions.

RESULTS

The number of OCs significantly decreased in the BHP-FHP group with respect to contact points (P = 0.03). OC intensity was similar among the three groups. However, OC location was significantly reduced in the NHP-BHP and NHP-FHP groups compared with the NHP group, specifically for functional cusp contacts (P = 0.03, P = 0.018).

CONCLUSIONS

Digital BRs obtained in different head positions showed significant differences only in the OC locations in the FHP and BHP compared with the NHP. The effect on the number of OCs was observed as the angle between the head positions increased from FHP to BHP.

Accuracy of digital jaw relation determination in different occlusal conditions - an in vitro study

OBJECTIVES

In orthodontics, accurate registration of jaw relationships is essential for correct diagnosis and treatment planning. Therefore, accuracy of the digital spatial registration of maxillary and mandibular models and - for the first time-the influence of dentition stage and malocclusion type on this procedure were investigated under controlled conditions.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Eight pairs of jaw models, representing different occlusal and developmental statuses (m1-m8), were scanned using two IOS types (PS: Primescan; TR: Trios4). Buccal scans for registering maxillary and mandibular models were repeated (n = 3). Reference scans were obtained using a desktop scanner (RDS; Ceramill Map 600). Arch-specific 3D coordinate systems were used to calculate the linear and angular deviations among different registrations. Trueness of registration by PS and TR was calculated using a statistical mixed-effect model (random-effect: model-type). Precision values of IOS registrations across m1-m8 were characterized as standard deviations (SDs).

RESULTS

As maximum deviations compared to RDS, PS showed caudal translation (0.11 ± 0.02 mm), while TR showed ventral translation (0.08 ± 0.06 mm), of the maxillary relative to the mandibular model. Maximum rotational values were calculated for tilting around the transverse axis (PS: anteinclination (0.25 ± 0.16°), TR: retroinclination (0.27 ± 0.16°)). These deviations varied with the malocclusion type. The lowest IOS precision was recorded for sagittal translation (PS: 0.013 ± 0.005 mm, TR: 0.021 ± 0.010 mm) and rotation around the transverse axis (PS: 0.051 ± 0.013°, TR: 0.076 ± 0.031°).

CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE

Registrations using buccal IOS scans showed quantifiable but clinically negligible 3D deviations from reference scan registrations, whereby the type of tooth and jaw misalignment did not appear to have a clinically relevant influence. Therefore, the examined IOSs appear to be suitable for digital jaw relation determination in everyday clinical orthodontic practice.

Accuracy of digital and conventional systems in locating occlusal contacts: A clinical study

STATEMENT OF PROBLEM

The accuracy of methods used for locating occlusal contacts throughout the entire clinical procedure has been poorly studied.

PURPOSE

The purpose of this clinical study was to determine the reproducibility and criterion validity for different methods of locating occlusal contacts.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Thirty-two adults with natural dentitions participated in this cross-sectional test-retest study. In total, occlusal contacts at maximum intercuspation were recorded by using 15 methods: silicone transillumination with Occlufast Rock (40, 50, 100, and 200 µm) and Occlufast CAD (40 and 50 µm); virtual occlusion (100, 200, 300, and 400 µm); articulating film (12-, 40-, 100-, and 200-µm-thick); and T-Scan III. Images of the occlusal records were scaled and calibrated spatially, and the occlusal contacts of the right posterior mandibular teeth were delimited by using the FIJI software program. Reproducibility was expressed as 95% confidence intervals (95% CI) of the percentage of agreement in the location of the occlusal contacts between images from the test sessions against retest sessions using the same method. Criterion validity was expressed as 95% CI of the percentage of agreement in the location of the occlusal contacts between images from the test sessions against images from Occlufast Rock (criterion standard).

RESULTS

Occlufast Rock achieved 85% to 95% agreement in the location of the occlusal contacts between the 2 sessions, whereas Occlufast CAD, 200-µm articulating film, and T-Scan offered 79% to 86%, 68% to 75%, and 65% to 75% agreement, respectively. The most valid method was Occlufast CAD (74% to 80%) followed by the 200-µm articulating film (57% to 63%), 400-µm virtual occlusion (53% to 62%), 100-µm articulating film (52% to 60%), and T-Scan (48% to 56%).

CONCLUSIONS

Conventional methods, such as 100- and 200-µm articulating film and digital methods, including 400 µm virtual occlusion and T-Scan, offer sufficient accuracy in locating the occlusal contacts. However, strategies are needed to improve accuracy.

A comprehensive review and update on the current state of computer-assisted rehabilitation in implant dentistry

AIM

This paper provides a comprehensive review of the established concepts and newer developments related to computer-assisted implant rehabilitation.

METHODS

Two independent researchers searched the English literature published to 31st December 2023 in the PubMed/Medline database for primary and secondary research and related publications on computer-assisted implant planning, computer-assisted implant placement and computer-assisted implant restoration.

RESULTS

A total of 58,923 papers were identified, 198 relevant papers were read in full text and 110 studies were finally included. Computer-assisted implant rehabilitation was found to result in more precise implant positioning than freehand placement. Advantages include reduced trauma and surgery time; disadvantages include reduced primary implant stability and higher cost.

CONCLUSION

Computer-assisted surgery is particularly indicated in cases of critical anatomy, but may encounter limitations in terms of cost, restricted mouth opening, visibility and adjustment of the surgical guides and the need for prior familiarisation with the procedure. Nonetheless, this surgical technique reduces the post-implant placement complication rate.

A guide for selecting the intraoral scan extension when fabricating tooth- and implant-supported fixed dental prostheses

OBJECTIVES

To describe a new classification for intraoral scans based on the scan extension and to introduce a decision guideline to choose the scan extension for fabricating tooth- and implant-supported fixed dental prostheses (FDPs).

OVERVIEW

Multiple operator- and patient-related factors have been identified that can decrease the scanning accuracy of intraoral scanners (IOSs), including scan extension. However, the decision criteria for selecting scan extension for fabricating tooth- and implant-supported restorations is unclear. Based on the extension of the intraoral digital scans, three types of scans can be defined: half-arch (anterior or posterior), extended half-arch, and complete-arch scan. Variables to consider when choosing the scan extension include the number and location of units being restored, as well as the extension and location of edentulous areas. Additionally, the accuracy of the virtual definitive cast and the accuracy of the maxillomandibular relationship captured by using IOSs should be differentiated.

CONCLUSIONS

A decision tree for selecting the scan extension is presented. The decision is based on the number and location of units being restored, and the extension and location of edentulous areas. Intraoral scans with reduced scan extension are indicated when fabricating tooth- and implant-supported crowns or short-span fixed prostheses, when the patient does not have more than one missing tooth in the area of the dental arch included in the scan. For the remaining clinical conditions, complete-arch intraoral scans are recommended.

CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE

Scan extension is a clinician's decision that should be based on the number and location of units being restored and the extension and location of edentulous areas. Intraoral scans with a reduced scan extension is recommended, when possible.

Virtual occlusal records acquired by using intraoral scanners: A review of factors that influence maxillo-mandibular relationship accuracy

PURPOSE

This review aims to provide a comprehensive summary of how much progress has been made in the field of virtual occlusal records (VOR) obtained with intraoral scanners (IOSs), their accuracy, and what factors influence their accuracy.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

An electronic search was performed in MEDLINE via PubMed and Scopus databases in February 2023. Eligible articles were clinical or in vitro studies evaluating the accuracy of virtual occlusal records with intraoral scanners in completely dentate and partially edentulous arches.

RESULTS

Virtual occlusal records have shown promising results in terms of accuracy, with some studies reporting a high level of agreement with traditional methods. Key factors influencing the accuracy of VOR through intraoral scanners were identified which encompass multiple parameters such as scanner brands, imaging technology, scan quality, best-fit alignment, software algorithms, intermesh penetrations, and the number of sections and dimensions of the virtual occlusal record. In partially edentate areas, the lack of landmarks in the edentulous area compromises the accuracy of VOR, thus limiting the use of IOS in patients with missing teeth.

CONCLUSION

Understanding and recognizing these influencing factors will increase the predictability and reliability of dental treatments completed by using digital workflows.  However, certain challenges need to be addressed which can influence its accuracy and limit its use in daily practice. Future research should focus on improving these factors to enhance the clinical applicability of virtual occlusal records.

Factors that influence the accuracy of maxillomandibular relationship at maximum intercuspation acquired by using intraoral scanners: A systematic review

OBJECTIVE

To review the factors that influence the accuracy of the maxillomandibular relationship at maximum intercuspation (MIP) acquired by using intraoral scanners (IOSs).

MATERIAL AND METHODS

A systematic search was performed using five databases: MEDLINE/PubMed, Cochrane, Embase, World of Science, and Scopus. A manual search was also completed. Studies assessing the factors that influence the MIP acquired by using IOSs were included and organized based on the analyzed factor. Studies were evaluated by applying the Joanna Briggs Institute Critical Appraisal Checklist.

RESULTS

Twenty-nine articles were included. Seven factors have been identified: IOS system, scan extension, edentulous areas, number, location, and extension of occlusal records, occlusal force, tooth mobility, and alignment methods. Nine studies evaluated the influence of IOS system. Four studies assessed the influence of the extension of the arch scan. Three studies evaluated the effect of edentulous spaces. Four studies agreed on the impact of the number, location, and extension of the occlusal records on the MIP accuracy. One study assessed the influence of the occlusal force, showing a smaller average interocclusal space with increased occlusal force. One study evaluated the influence of tooth mobility. Seven studies analyzed the influence of the alignment method on the MIP accuracy.

CONCLUSIONS

Most of the studies reported no difference on the MIP accuracy between half- and complete-arch scans. Areas with 2 or more missing teeth reduce the MIP accuracy. A bilateral and frontal record including 2 teeth or a bilateral posterior occlusal including at least 4-teeth is indicated for maximizing the MIP accuracy.

CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS

When a complete-arch intraoral scans is obtained, a bilateral and frontal record including 2 teeth or a bilateral posterior occlusal record including at least 4-teeth is recommended for maximizing the accuracy of the MIP. When a half-arch intraoral scan is acquired, a posterior occlusal record including at least 4-teeth is indicated for optimizing the accuracy of the MIP.

In-vitro accuracy of a novel jaw-tracking technology

OBJECTIVES

As jaw-tracking systems integrate into digital prosthetic workflows, their accuracy remains underexplored. This study aimed to evaluate the in vitro accuracy of a novel digital jaw-tracking system (Modjaw, Villeurbanne, France) by comparing its precision and trueness to that of an industrial scanner.

METHODS

Upper and lower typodont models were scanned with an industrial-grade optical scanner (ATOS Q, Carl Zeiss GOM Metrology GmbH, Germany) to produce master scans. The models were placed in a phantom head with artificial joints to replicate five different intermaxillary relationships (IMRs). The 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5 mm IMR distances were stabilized by five silicone bites. The silicone bites were repositioned after each measurement. ATOS scanned the whole artificial joint with the models three times in each IMR to assess the precision of the repositioning (i.e., bite precision). The master scans were uploaded to Modjaw. Modjaw recorded the five IMR positions three times each to assess the precision of the Modjaw. Precision was calculated by aligning the scans within the same group, whereas Modjaw trueness was evaluated by aligning ATOS and Modjaw scans. The mean absolute distance (MAD) between aligned surfaces was calculated. The effect of IMR on the MAD was evaluated using a linear mixed model.

RESULTS

The mean bite precision across the IMRs was 7.6 ± 0.53 µm. Modjaw precision over the IMRS was 9.7 ± 1.76 µm, and the trueness was 10.8 ± 1.40 µm. Increased IMRs up to 4 mm significantly increased the MAD from 6.5 to 8.5 µm for the bite precision, 4.8 to 15.7 µm Modjaw precision, and 7.1 to 14.9 µm for trueness.

CONCLUSIONS

Modjaw excelled in accuracy, comparable to industrial scanners and superior to traditional methods. IMR elevation marginally deteriorates the accuracy. Future studies should extend to varied movements beyond centric relations and encompass the influence of intraoral scanners.

Annual review of selected scientific literature: A report of the Committee on Scientific Investigation of the American Academy of Restorative Dentistry

The Scientific Investigation Committee of the American Academy of Restorative Dentistry offers this review of the 2022 dental literature to briefly touch on several topics of interest to modern restorative dentistry. Each committee member brings discipline-specific expertise in their subject areas that include (in order of the appearance in this report): prosthodontics; periodontics, alveolar bone, and peri-implant tissues; dental materials and therapeutics; occlusion and temporomandibular disorders; sleep-related breathing disorders; oral medicine and oral and maxillofacial surgery; and dental caries and cariology. The authors focused their efforts on reporting information likely to influence the daily dental treatment decisions of the reader with an emphasis on innovations, new materials and processes, and future trends in dentistry. With the tremendous volume of literature published daily in dentistry and related disciplines, this review cannot be comprehensive. Instead, its purpose is to update interested readers and provide valuable resource material for those willing to subsequently pursue greater detail on their own. Our intent remains to assist colleagues in navigating the tremendous volume of newly minted information produced annually. Finally, we hope that readers find this work helpful in managing patients.

Accuracy of the maxillomandibular relationship at centric relation position recorded by using 3 different intraoral scanners with or without an optical jaw tracking system: An in vivo pilot study

PURPOSE

To measure the accuracy (trueness and precision) of the maxillomandibular relationship at centric relation position recorded by using 3 different intraoral scanners with or without an optical jaw tracking system.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

A completely dentate volunteer was selected. Seven groups were generated: conventional procedure (control group), 3 IOSs: Trios4 (Trios4 group), Itero Element 5D Plus (Itero group), i700 (i700 group), and 3 groups with a jaw tracking system for each corresponding IOS system (Modjaw-Trios4, Modjaw-iTero, and Modjaw-i700 groups) (n = 10). In the control group, casts were mounted on an articulator (Panadent) using a face bow and a CR record captured with the Kois deprogrammer (KD). The casts were digitized by using a scanner (T710) (control files). In the Trios4 group, intraoral scans were obtained by using the corresponding IOS and duplicated 10 times. The KD was used to obtain a bilateral occlusal record at CR position. These same procedures were followed for the Itero and i700 groups. In the Modjaw-Trios 4 group, the intraoral scans acquired by using the corresponding IOS at MIP were imported into the jaw tracking program. The KD was used to record the CR relationship. For acquiring the specimens in the Modjaw-Itero and Modjaw-i700 groups, the same procedures were followed as in the Modjaw-Trios4 group, with the scans obtained with the Itero and i700 scanners respectively. The articulated virtual casts of each group were exported. Thirty-six inter-landmark linear measurements were used to calculate the discrepancies between the control and experimental scans. The data were analyzed by using 2-way ANOVA followed the pairwise comparison Tukey tests (α=0.05).

RESULTS

Significant trueness and precision discrepancies were found among the groups tested (P<.001). The Modjaw-i700, Modjaw-iTero, Modjaw-Trios4, and i700 groups obtained the best trueness and precision among the groups tested, and the iTero and Trios4 groups obtained the worst trueness. The iTero group obtained the worst precision among the groups tested (P>.05).

CONCLUSIONS

The maxillomandibular relationship recorded was influenced by the technique selected. Except for the i700 IOS system, the optical jaw tracking system tested improved the trueness value of the maxillomandibular relationship recorded at CR position when compared with the corresponding IOS.

The Complete Digital Workflow in Fixed Prosthodontics Updated: A Systematic Review

Digital applications have changed therapy in prosthodontics. In 2017, a systematic review reported on complete digital workflows for treatment with tooth-borne or implant-supported fixed dental prostheses (FDPs). Here, we aim to update this work and summarize the recent scientific literature reporting complete digital workflows and to deduce clinical recommendations. A systematic search of PubMed/Embase using PICO criteria was performed. English-language literature consistent with the original review published between 16 September 2016 and 31 October 2022 was considered. Of the 394 titles retrieved by the search, 42 abstracts were identified, and subsequently, 16 studies were included for data extraction. A total of 440 patients with 658 restorations were analyzed. Almost two-thirds of the studies focused on implant therapy. Time efficiency was the most often defined outcome (n = 12/75%), followed by precision (n = 11/69%) and patient satisfaction (n = 5/31%). Though the amount of clinical research on digital workflows has increased within recent years, the absolute number of published trials remains low, particularly for multi-unit restorations. Current clinical evidence supports the use of complete digital workflows in implant therapy with monolithic crowns in posterior sites. Digitally fabricated implant-supported crowns can be considered at least comparable to conventional and hybrid workflows in terms of time efficiency, production costs, precision, and patient satisfaction.