The role of intraoral scanning in the fully digital workflow for post and core restorations: A scoping review

This scoping review aimed to map the literature on the utilization of intraoral scanners (IOS) in fabricating post and core restorations.

The study protocol is available at https://osf.io/ja9xh/. This scoping review followed Joanna Briggs Institute guidelines, and reporting was based on the checklist proposed by PRISMA-ScR.

Searches were conducted in PubMed/MEDLINE, Web of Science, Scopus, and grey literature up to August 2023.

A total of 455 studies were identified. After screening, 16 studies were deemed suitable for scoping review. Of these, 13 were in vitro studies, two were case reports, and one was a clinical study. Different IOS systems for scanning post spaces were evaluated, with Trios being most prevalent, followed by Prismescan. While most studies did not use any intraoral scanning devices, five studies reported the use of scan posts. Results regarding retention favored fully digital workflows. However, results about the adaptation and accuracy varied between included studies, highlighting the importance of standardized approaches. Future clinical studies should encompass variations in IOS systems, post space depths, scanner depth of field, light conditions, scan post utilization, operator experience, scanning time and strategy, and direct comparison with conventional techniques.

IOS is increasingly important in capturing digital impressions for post spaces and provides valuable insights for clinicians and researchers. Although included studies, primarily in vitro, demonstrated promising results for the utilization of IOS systems in fully digital workflows for post and core restorations, further well-conducted studies, particularly clinical trials, are recommended due to data heterogeneity and limitations.

This mapping highlights the potential of modern IOS in fully digital workflows for post and core restorations. Despite promising results, challenges related to different variables associated with IOS require careful consideration. Standardization and additional clinical validation are essential for optimize IOS benefits in post and core restorations.