Related Experiment Video
Updated: Oct 11, 2026
Measuring the Complete-arch Distortion of an Optical Dental Impression
Published on: May 30, 2019
Composite restoration wear analysis: conventional methods vs. three-dimensional laser digitizer
R Perry1, G Kugel, K H Kunzelmann
1Gavel Center for Restorative Research, Tufts University College of Dentistry, Boston, USA.
Unlabelled:
The purpose of this study was to compare three-dimensional laser digitizing with subjective evaluations of wear in posterior resin-based composite restorations during a 24-month period.
Background:
The authors describe an indirect method of analyzing wear in resin-based composite restorations. A computer-driven laser was used to scan stone casts of restorations and create three-dimensional computerized surface models of the teeth. A standard computer algorithm was used to superimpose the follow-up model images over the baseline model images and to calculate the amount of wear within 10 micrometers.
Methods:
Patients were selected whose treatment plans required a Class II restoration. A total of 100 restorations were inserted at baseline and evaluated at six months, 12 months and 24 months. Polyether quadrant impressions were taken and casts were made. Twenty-one casts were selected for the three-dimensional laser digitizing technique. The same casts were evaluated via subjective evaluations using sets of 18 calibrated standard models, following the method developed by Leinfelder.
Results:
Statistical analysis using the Wilcoxon test revealed significant differences (P < .01) between subjective wear evaluation and the three-dimensional laser digitizing wear analysis.
Conclusion:
The normalized three-dimensional laser digitizing technique is significantly more effective than subjective evaluations in establishing restoration wear rates.
