The optimal scan pattern for full-arch digital implant impressions remains to be determined. This study aimed to analyze the effects of different scan patterns on the trueness of intraoral scanners for full-arch digital implant impressions. A maxillary plaster model with four implant analogs was employed as the master model. Scan bodies were attached to the master model and scanned with a laboratory scanner to obtain reference data. Test scans were obtained using three different scan patterns with Cerec Primescan and Trios 3. Each test data was superimposed onto the reference data. The trueness was assessed by determining the 3D distance and angular deviations between the test and reference data. Significant differences in 3D distance deviation were detected among the scan patterns for both scanners. Significant differences in angle deviation were detected among the scan patterns for the Cerec Primescan, whereas it was not substantial for the Trios 3. Cerec Primescan exhibited superior trueness across all scan patterns compared to Trios 3. The zigzag pattern resulted in more accurate scans for the Cerec Primescan, while both the zigzag and occlusal-palatal-buccal patterns showed higher accuracy for the Trios 3.
Keywords: Scan pattern; accuracy; dental implant; digital implant impression; full-arch; intraoral scanner.