Linear Accuracy of Full-Arch Digital Models Using Four Different Scanning Methods: An In Vitro Study Using a Coordinate Measuring Machine

Abstract

Improving the accuracy of the digital model is essential for the digitalization of the dental field. This study introduced a novel method of objective accuracy evaluation of digitized full dental arch model using coordinate measuring machine (CMM). To obtain a true linear measurement value using the CMM, 17 reference balls were attached to the typodont, and 12 measurements between balls on the X-(width), Y-(length), and Z-axes (height) were performed automatically. A rubber impression and a plaster cast replica of the typodont with balls were fabricated, and they were digitized with following methods: (a) true model intraoral scans; (b) impression cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) scans; (c) cast CBCT scans; and (d) cast extraoral scans. Each scanning method was performed 20 times. Twelve linear measurements on the digitized models were automatically made using software. The one-sample t-test and one-way analysis of variance were used for measurement accuracy analysis. The cast extraoral scan was most accurate on X- and Y-axes, while impression CBCT was the most accurate on Z-axis. Over all axes, the intraoral scan resulted in the most deviation from the true model, and the reproducibility of each scan was also low. Extraoral scan shows high precision on width and length, and impression CBCT is advantageous for dental work where height factor is of importance.