Related Experiment Video
Updated: Oct 17, 2026
Quantitative Assessment Protocol for Facial Soft Tissue Volumetric Changes with Stereophotogrammetry
Published on: December 9, 2025
Comparative evaluation of single camera photogrammetry and LIDAR-based facial scanning
Aditi Singh1, Payal Sharma1, Piush Kumar1
1ITS-CDSR, Department of Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopaedics (Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh, India).
Introduction:
Orthodontic diagnosis and treatment planning relies on precise diagnostic records, including facial imaging. While two-dimensional (2D) photography is widely used, it cannot fully represent three-dimensional (3D) facial structures. Recent advances in 3D imaging, including LiDAR-based scanning and single-camera photogrammetry (SCP), offer improved accuracy.
Objectives:
This study evaluates these cost-effective 3D scanning methods in facial soft tissue assessment, by comparing measurements from SCP and LiDAR-based mobile apps, with manual method measurements as gold standard.
Methods:
Thirty-six patients (21 females, 15 males) aged 15-25 years requiring orthodontic treatment participated. Scanning was conducted using SCP and LiDAR technology, while manual measurements used digital calipers. Statistical analysis evaluated accuracy, precision, and reliability.
Results:
Both SCP and LiDAR-based scanning techniques show clinically acceptable accuracy in facial soft tissue analysis. LiDAR-based scanning demonstrates better depth perception than SCP, though both methods are viable alternatives to conventional imaging.
Conclusion:
The study highlights smartphone-based 3D facial scanning as viable alternatives to traditional imaging in Orthodontics. While SCP and LiDAR scanning show comparable accuracy, further research is needed. The findings support implementing affordable 3D scanning technologies in orthodontic diagnostic protocols.
