Accuracy and dimensional reproducibility by model scanning, intraoral scanning, and CBCT imaging for digital implant dentistry

Abstract Background Recently, it has become possible to analyze implant placement position using the digital matching data of optical impression data of the oral cavity or plaster models with cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) data, and create a highly accurate surgical guide. It has been reported that CBCT measurements were smaller than the actual values, termed shrinkage. Matching of digital data is reliable when the plaster model or intraoral impression values show shrinkage at the same rate as the CBCT data. However, if the shrinkage rate is significantly different, the obtained digital data become unreliable. To clarify digital matching reliability, we examined dimensional reproducibility and shrinkage in measurements obtained with a model scanner, intra-oral scanner (iOS), and CBCT. Materials and methods Three implants that were arranged in a triangle were fixed in an acrylic plate. The distance between each implants were measured using model scanner, iOS, and CBCT. The actual size measured by electronic caliper was regarded as control. Results All values measured with CBCT were significantly smaller than that of model scanner, iOS, and control (p