Evaluation of the Pink Esthetic Score for Single Implants in the Esthetic Zone Using Intraoral Scanning Data: A Proof-of-Concept Study

Abstract

Objectives

To evaluate the feasibility of esthetic assessments based on intraoral scanning data using pink and white esthetic scores (PES/WES).

Materials and Methods

Thirty samples with both intraoral photographs and scanning data were collected and rated by two observers with excellent consistency independently. PES includes seven variables, and WES includes five. The maximum scores were 14 and 10, respectively.

Results

The mean PES/WES was 10.60 ± 1.69 and 8.50 ± 1.28 for photographs and 10.97 ± 1.69 and 8.40 ± 1.25 for scanning data. No significant difference was observed between the two sample types. The alveolar process variable had significantly higher scores, while the soft-tissue color variable had significantly lower scores based on intraoral photographs compared to scanning.

Conclusions

Intraoral scanning could be a method for the esthetic evaluation of single implant-supported restorations using PES/WES. The use of three-dimensional imaging enables the precise assessment of esthetic outcomes, paving the way for improvements in the digital workflow of implant dentistry. However, the limitations of color and texture reproducibility should be noted.

Clinical Significance

Intraoral scanning data can be used for esthetic evaluation, and reliable results could be achieved with the application of scanning.