Full arch accuracy of intraoral scanners with different acquisition technologies: An in vitro study
Purpose
The study assessed and compared the full-arch accuracy—of five intraoral scanners (IOS), using three different acquisition technologies.
Approach
- Used a standardized cast as recommended by ADA/ANSI 132 standard, each scanner was tested across 90 scans with three experienced operators.
- Technologies evaluated:
- Confocal Imaging: TRIOS5 & CS3800
- Structured Light: Mediti700 & AlliedStar260
- Multi-Direct Capture (MDC): iTero Lumina
Key Metrics Assessed & Findings:
- Trueness: Measures closeness of the scan measurements to the actual reference values.
- iTero Lumina (MDC) showed the lowest mean error in trueness (0.04%) outperforming all other scanners.
- Precision: Measures consistency across repeated scans.
- iTero Lumina (MDC) showed the lowest mean error for precision (0.032%) and highest ratio of acceptable scans (99.6%).
- Plane Deviation: Measures vertical error from a reference plane.
- Lumina’s mean error was lowest at 19μm, superior to other scanners, statistically significant vs CS 3800 only.
- Inter-Operator Variability
- iTero Lumina provided the most consistent results across operators. This could translate into reduced technique-sensitivity.
Conclusion:
- Scanning Technology Matters:
MDC technology (iTero Lumina) greatly improved linear accuracy (trueness and precision) in full-arch scans compared to confocal and structured-light scanners. - Clinical Significance:
iTero lumina delivered the most reliable and consistent results, and may offer a more accurate, efficient and reliable digital impression solution for full-arch dentistry, though the authors emphasize the need for further research under real-world clinical conditions. - Future Directions:
More research is recommended, especially for implant borne restorations in real-world.
Baresel, I., & Baresel, J. (2025). Full arch accuracy of intraoral scanners with different acquisition technologies: An in vitro study. Journal of Dentistry, 156, 105703. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jdent.2025.105703
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