Complete arch implant surgical guide for accurate implant scanning without photogrammetry device: A workflow based on...

Accurate implant impressions or scans are critical to the success of complete arch implant-supported prostheses. Photogrammetry devices have recently gained popularity for their ability to deliver predictable scans immediately after complete arch implant placement. However, they must be used in combination with an intraoral scanner. This article describes a workflow for obtaining accurate scans during complete arch implant surgery without a photogrammetry device. A custom calibrator was designed as a part of the complete arch implant surgical guide. This calibrator was then 3-dimensionally printed and scanned with a desktop scanner. After implant placement during surgery, an intraoral scan is made with the calibrator positioned alongside the scan bodies. The intraoral scan is then calibrated using the previously obtained desktop scan, resulting in an accurate digital representation of the implant positions.