"Advancements in Intraoral Scanning: Accuracy, Clinical Performance, and the Future of Digital Dentistry"

Abstract

Intraoral scanners (IOS) have revolutionized digital dentistry by providing highly accurate, real-time 3D impressions, eliminating the need for conventional impression techniques. These devices enhance workflow efficiency, improve patient comfort, and integrate seamlessly with CAD/CAM systems, AI-driven software, and cloud-based storage for interdisciplinary collaboration. This review explores the evolution, types, accuracy, clinical applications, advantages, limitations, and future innovations of intraoral scanners, highlighting their transformative role in modern dental practice. Various IOS technologies, including structured-light scanning, laser-based imaging, confocal microscopy, and stereophotogrammetry, have been analyzed. Studies assessing accuracy, precision, and clinical performance indicate that while IOS demonstrates high accuracy for single-unit and short-span restorations, full-arch scanning remains challenging due to cumulative distortion errors. Recent advancements, such as AI-driven image stitching, real-time error correction, and multi-wavelength scanning, are helping to overcome these limitations. Clinically, IOS has shown significant benefits in prosthodontics, orthodontics, implantology, caries detection, and restorative dentistry. Although IOS technology improves chairside efficiency, patient experience, and digital workflow optimization, challenges such as high costs, learning curves, and limitations in complex cases persist. With ongoing technological innovations and increasing regulatory approvals (FDA, CE marking), intraoral scanners are rapidly becoming the gold standard in digital dentistry. Future research should focus on enhancing full-arch scan accuracy, expanding AI integration, and making IOS more accessible for broader clinical adoption. As digital workflows continue to evolve, intraoral scanners are set to redefine modern dentistry, improving precision, efficiency, and patient outcomes.