Evaluation of reliability of face scanning using a new depth camera

Area of Science:

• Craniofacial imaging
• Digital dentistry
• Medical device technology

Background:

• Conventional impression techniques for craniofacial analysis have inherent disadvantages.
• Advancements in 3D imaging offer potential solutions for improved accuracy and efficiency.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate and compare the accuracy of a novel 3D camera for digital face impressions.
• To assess the reliability of 3D digital data against conventional impression methods.

Main Methods:

• Utilized ten polystyrene head molds with 10 predefined anatomical landmarks.
• Acquired 3D data using an Intel RealSense D415 camera.
• Fabricated conventional silicone impressions and stone casts for comparison.
• Measured distances between 45 anatomical landmark pairs using intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC).

Main Results:

• Significant consistency was observed across all groups (3D camera, stone casts, head molds) for distance measurements (ICC = 0.978).
• High correlations were found between the 3D camera data and both stone casts (ICC = 0.970) and head molds (ICC = 0.967).
• Conventional stone casts also showed high correlation with head molds (ICC = 0.998).

Conclusions:

• The 3D camera exhibits accurate distance measurements, consistent with reference values.
• Digital impressions using 3D cameras are a viable alternative to conventional methods for craniofacial applications.
• This technology can aid in the assessment and management of craniofacial defects.