Classification of Complete-Arch Implant Scanning Techniques Recorded by Using Intraoral Scanners.

Objectives: To classify the complete-arch implant scanning techniques recorded by using intraoral scanners (IOSs).

Overview: Different implant scanning techniques have been described for recording complete-arch implant scans by using IOSs. However, dental literature lacks on a classification of these implant scanning techniques. Implant scanning techniques aim is to record the 3-dimensional position of the implants being scanned, while implant scanning workflows require additional scans to record all the information needed for designing an implant prosthesis. This additional information includes soft tissue information, tooth position, antagonist arch, and maxillomandibular relationship.

Conclusions: There are five complete-arch implant scanning techniques captured by using IOSs: non-splinting, non-calibrated splinting, calibrated implant scan bodies, calibrated frameworks, and reverse impression methods. The digital workflow varies depending on the implant scanning technique selected.

Clinical significance: The understanding of the varying implant scanning techniques and the main differences among them may ease the decision criteria for recording digital implant scans by using intraoral scanners.