In vitro scan accuracy and time efficiency in various implant-supported fixed partial denture situations

Area of Science:

• Dental Technology
• Digital Dentistry
• Prosthodontics

Background:

• Digital workflows are transforming dental prosthodontics, offering potential improvements in accuracy and efficiency.
• Evaluating different digital impression techniques is crucial for optimizing treatment outcomes in implant-supported restorations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the accuracy and time efficiency of direct (DDW) and indirect (IDW) digital workflows for implant-supported fixed partial dentures.
• To assess deviations in 3D point, inter-implant distance, and angular measurements across different digital workflows.

Main Methods:

• Three maxillary models with two implants each were used for reference scans.
• Direct digital workflow scans (Primescan, Trios 3) and indirect digital workflow scans (from vinylsiloxanether impressions) were performed.
• Scan and post-processing times were recorded, and deviations were analyzed using Kruskal-Wallis and Mann-Whitney tests.

Main Results:

• Direct digital workflows demonstrated higher accuracy and precision in 3D point, inter-implant distance, and angular deviations compared to indirect workflows.
• Primescan (DDW-P) showed superior accuracy for specific models, while indirect digital workflow was least accurate for model 2.
• Direct digital workflows were significantly faster than indirect methods, with Primescan being more time-efficient than Trios 3.

Conclusions:

• Direct digital workflows offer superior accuracy and efficiency for fabricating implant-supported fixed partial dentures in partially edentulous situations with two implants.
• Intraoral scanners are recommended for accurate and efficient impressions in various implant-supported fixed partial denture scenarios.