3D facial and dento-alveolar imaging.

This article reviews three-dimensional (1D) surface scanning contrasted with 3D imaging. Precise techniques are now available for capture of the face and craniofacial structures as well as improved introoral scanning for the production of virtual 3D casts of the dentition. Facial and intraoral scanners have established an accuracy that makes them viable for use in the clinical and research arenas. Three-dimensional imaging is a field of rapid change and currently-available scanners will doubtlessly be surpassed in the near future. Although there is much overlap between the capabilities of different proprietary systems, there are subtle, yet significant, differences between manufacturers. The differences have the potential to make a purchased scanner not fulfil expectations as much for reasons of software compatibility and integration, as for clinical usability and accuracy.