Accuracy of intraoral scanners in maxillary multiple restorations: An in vitro study

Background/purpose: The accuracy of intraoral scanners (IOSs) plays a crucial role in the success of final restorations in digital workflows. Previous studies have shown that numerous factors affect the accuracy of IOSs. Most studies have evaluated the accuracy of IOS under one restoration condition. Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate the accuracy of two IOSs with different data acquisition methods across multiple restorations. Materials and methods: A partially edentulous model with preparations were created and scanned using the laboratory scanner E4 as the reference model. Two IOSs, Trios 3 and Virtuo Vivo, were used in this study. Each scan was performed in same scanning strategy. Trueness and precision of each scan was compared by surface-matching software, and the data were statistically analyzed. Results: Trios 3 showed no significant difference in trueness of full arch, single crown, and edentulous area, except for 3-unit bridge area than Virtuo Vivo (P = 0.008). However, Virtuo Vivo showed better precision than Trios 3 (P = 0.003). There was no differ in linear dental measurements between two scanners. Conclusion: We found Trios 3 had better trueness in 3-unit bridge area compared to Virto Vivo, but there was no significant difference in the other preparation areas. While Virtuo Vivo showed better precision. Our results can provide insights for the selection of IOSs for various restorations in clinical practice. However, this is an in vitro study, the chairside challenges of IOSs should be considered.