Scanning in Dentistry: A Systematic Review

ABSTRACT

With a focus on optical impressions, this literature review examines the development, present state, and potential future effects of scanning technology in dentistry. From confocal laser scanning to accordion fringeinterferometry (AFI), we explore the imaging principles of various dental scanners, such as iTero Element, TRIOS 3, Lava C.O.S., True Definition, and CEREC Omnicam. The manual and electronic literatures of previous ten years in the databanks of the PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus were conducted. The search terms were “intraoral scanner” AND “diagnosis*” OR “Dental Scanners.” The types of studies included were restricted to the original studies and human trials. Analyses of subgroups and meta-regression were used to calculate the heterogeneity. Twenty-eight papers were considered in the review and the results cover primary conclusions, oral diseases identified by intraoral scanning (IOS), and oral diagnostic tools. This review enhances our understanding of IOS scanning in dentistry by exploring its diagnostic effectiveness across various oral disorders. The review explores scanning technology in dentistry, highlighting its revolutionary effects and future applications. It is a valuable resource for professionals and academics in this field amid its digital transformation.

INTRODUCTION

The digital age in dentistry began in 1973 with the introduction of computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing.[1] This technology integration has led to advancements like intraoral scanning, cone beam computed tomography, and 3D printing.[2,3] A milestone in 2008 was the launch of Cadent iTero, the first complete arch scanning digital impression device.[4] Subsequent advancements by various companies have improved impression taking, with digital impressions now partly replacing traditional techniques.[5,6] Intraoral scanners offer benefits such as patient comfort, enhanced time management, streamlined clinical processes, and precise data capture.[7,8] Orthodontics has increasingly adopted intraoral scanners, shaping new relationships between dentists and laboratories.[9,10] Digital impressions improve treatment by facilitating efficient data transmission, which eliminates shipping time, reduces costs, and enhances visualization, minimizing errors.[11]

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Eligibility criteria

The questionnaire, based on PRISMA standards, guided this systematic review focusing on IOS for diagnosing various oral health issues.[12] It excluded research on 3D dental models for prosthetic teeth and braces, emphasizing reliability assessment in reconstructive techniques and using digital scanning for creating mouth models.

Information sources and search strategy

The search in PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus for intraoral scanners in dentistry focused on the past ten years, with criteria limited to the last five years due to technology advancements. Relevant papers were identified by scanning title, abstract, and keywords, excluding duplicates and non-English articles.

Study selection

Following the PRISMA flowchart, studies were selected based on their titles and abstracts. Publications lacking clarity on intraoral scan diagnostic function were excluded. Full texts of chosen articles were then reviewed for meeting qualifications [Figure 1].

Figure 1.

The PRISMA figure showing the steps to choose the studies for systematic review

Data collection process

The collected details mainly encompassed writers, abstracts, DOIs, publication years, and work titles. Ambiguities regarding inclusion, exclusion, and categorization were clarified through discussions until an agreement was reached, making it unnecessary to contact authors for additional information.

Data items

By identifying the diagnostic app suited for IOS, optical properties for oral disease recognition were evaluated across key diagnostic fields. Articles were grouped based on software used to analyze prevalent tools in dentistry.

Synthesis procedures and outcome analysis

In addition, other less-discussed applications include creating pie charts and histograms in Excel to represent numerical distributions. Tables are commonly utilized to facilitate comparisons between various devices.

RESULTS

The titles and abstracts of each article were first examined, and then the complete text was carefully examined. Table 1 provides a concise overview of the many fields associated with each manuscript that was examined.

Table 1.

Summary of the items and categories examined for the included papers

Reference	Aim	Product	Study type	IOS type	Diagnostic Applications	Findings
Alwadai et al (2020) [13]	Analyse quantitative outcome metrics as clinical markers	3M True Definition	Invitro	Commercial	Dental wear	iOS may be utilized to monitor total tooth wear.
Ayoub et al (2021) [14]	Using 3D pictures of the nasolabial area, evaluate asymmetry and scarring on the upper lip in surgically treated unilateral cleft lip and palate (UCLP) patients.	TRIOS 3	Invivo	Commercial	Analysis of nasolabial region	Accurately measured using the 3D pictures.
Michou et al (2020) [15]	To evaluate 3D IOS to identify and track early signs of erosive tooth wear.	3Shape TRIOS® 3	Invitro	Commercial	Dental wear	It has great promise for in vivo use
Pałka et al (2022)[16]	To assess the effects of detachable uses on children with malocclusions’ development variations during a ten month period.	iTero	Invivo	Commercial	Orthodontic diagnosis	When compared to children with normal occlusion, the use of removable appliances helps counteract growth alterations in children with a narrower maxillary transverse dimension.

DISCUSSION

We extensively studied how intraoral scanners can help diagnose dental wear, which affects overall health. This wear can lead to functional issues like sensitivity and chewing problems, as well as structural problems such as decay. Studying tooth wear is crucial for illness prevention. Research mainly focused on in vitro experiments simulating various factors impacting tooth wear. Scanners’ accuracy in detecting changes was evaluated using 3D metrology software.

Intraoral scanners aid in assessing dental issues and creating hybrid images. Research delves into their effectiveness in identifying functional and structural dental problems, such as malocclusion and scarring.

CONCLUSION

This study comprehensively assesses scanning technologies in dentistry, focusing on optical impressions. It contrasts the pros and cons of optical impressions with traditional methods, highlighting their importance in pediatric dentistry. The research boosts awareness of scanning’s diagnostic effectiveness and potential for broader dental use.

Conflicts of interest

There are no conflicts of interest.

Funding Statement

Nil.