Accuracy of three-dimensional printed models derived from cone-beam computed tomography

Area of Science:

• Dentistry
• Biomedical Engineering
• Orthodontics

Background:

• Accurate digital models are crucial for orthodontic diagnosis and treatment planning.
• Three-dimensional (3D) printing allows for the fabrication of physical models from digital data.
• Comparing the accuracy of models derived from different scanning technologies is essential for clinical application.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the accuracy of 3D printed models created from cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) scans compared to those from intraoral scanner (IOS) data.
• To assess the clinical relevance of any observed discrepancies in model accuracy.

Main Methods:

• Six human mandibular dry skulls were scanned using both IOS and CBCT.
• Digital models were generated from both scan types and physically replicated using 3D printing.
• Measurements of tooth dimensions and arch widths were taken using a digital caliper for comparison.

Main Results:

• All measurements demonstrated high reliability with intraclass correlation coefficient values exceeding 0.9.
• Significant discrepancies in accuracy were found for mandibular teeth dimensions between IOS and CBCT models (P < .01).
• No significant differences were observed in intercanine and molar widths between the two scanning methods (P > .05).

Conclusions:

• While statistically significant differences in accuracy exist between CBCT and IOS-derived models, these do not appear to have substantial clinical implications.
• Cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) can be reliably utilized as an orthodontic diagnostic tool and for the fabrication of orthodontic appliances.