Optical Three‐Dimensional Scanning Acquisition of the Position of Osseointegrated Implants: An in vitro Study to Determine Method Accuracy and Operational Feasibility

Abstract

Manufacturing complex prosthetic framework on osseointegrated implants requires precision at every step of execution. The purpose of this study was to verify the possibility of applying the technology of image acquisition to determine the spatial position of osseointegrated implants. An optical three-dimensional scanning technique was employed: its measurement systematic error (bias) was calculated by comparing the results with the detection on a coordinates measuring machine. Measurements were carried out on master casts by doing an in vitro simulation of intraoral conditions. This study showed that the bias error value of the three-dimensional optical acquiring system was situated between 14 and 21 microm. As far as the accuracy is concerned, it seems possible to use the three-dimensional image acquisition technology as a valid alternative to traditional impression-making procedures. However, the bias levels obtained in this in vitro study will have to be confirmed in a clinical trial.