Classification of Scanning Errors of Digital Scans Recorded by Using Intraoral Scanners.

Abstract

Objectives: The different scanning errors that can be caused by the operator handling an intraoral scanner (IOS) or the intraoral conditions of the patient being scanned have not been described. The purpose of this review was to describe and classify the scanning errors that can be identified in digital scans recorded by using IOSs.

Overview: The identification of scanning errors in an intraoral scan and understanding the cause of these scanning errors are fundamental procedures for successfully handling an IOS and integrating these digital data acquisition technologies in dental practices. There are two main types of scanning errors: the ones created by the operator and the ones caused by the intraoral conditions of the patient. There are seven operator-related scanning errors: mesh hole, stitching, tissue, reliability, umbrella, implant scan body geometry, and scanning noise errors. Additionally, there are four patient-related scanning errors: humidity, bridge, fuzzy finish line, and scanability noise errors.

Conclusions: The identification of scanning errors is fundamental for assessing the quality of an intraoral digital scan. The comprehensive reading of these scanning errors allows the dental professional to understand if the scanning error can be corrected or if it is related to hardware/software limitations of IOSs.