3D analysis of occlusal registration through geometry embedded library matching between quadrant and full-arch digital impression

Abstract

ObjectiveThis study aimed to compare the accuracy of occlusal registration for single-unit restorations in the posterior area of the jaw using the complete-arch or quadrant scan techniques.Materials and methodsA master cast was prepared and articulated on a nonadjustable articulator, and the maxillary left first molar was prepared for a full-coverage crown. The master cast was digitized as the reference data using a laboratory scanner (E3 scanner, 3Shape, Copenhagen, Denmark). It was scanned 10 times in the complete arch and 10 times in the quadrant, with an occlusal registration in each, using four intraoral scanners (i500, Primescan, TRIOS 3, and TRIOS 4). The scanned data were aligned to the reference data using GOM Inspect software. A three-dimensional analysis of the surface-based occlusal clearance and angular deviation, focusing on the prepared tooth, was performed.ResultsThe mean surface-based occlusal clearance in the quadrant and complete-arch scans was 1.622 +/- 0.032 mm and 1.642 +/- 0.043 mm, respectively. Angular deviations compared to the reference cast showed a difference of 0.10 degrees distally and 0.09 degrees buccally for the quadrant scan and 0.12 degrees distally and buccally for the complete-arch scan. Statistical analysis was performed using one-way analysis of variance and post hoc Scheffe's test. No significant differences were observed between the test groups.ConclusionsNo significant differences were found between occlusal registrations of the complete-arch and quadrant scans. Therefore, a quadrant scan can achieve the same outcome as a complete-arch scan for single-unit restoration in the posterior area of the jaw.