Comparison of dimensional accuracy of digital impression technique versus conventional impression technique on parallel endosseous dental implants: An in vitro study

To create an implant prosthesis that fits well, a precise implant impression is necessary. This in vitro study assessed the dimensional accuracy of open tray impressions vs digital impressions taken with an intraoral scanner for tracking the locations of parallel-placed endosseous implants. Two parallel endosseous implants were positioned in a mandibular customized model made up of epoxy resin at the first premolar sites. The inter-implant distance was measured using a Co-ordinate Measuring Machine (SIPCON SVI CNC 3D). Conventional open tray impressions were made using addition silicone, while digital impressions were captured with an intraoral scanner (CEREC OMNICAM). A total of 10 impressions were collected for both techniques. The inter-implant distance for both groups was measured using the analyzing tool in CEREC Dentsply Sirona software and compared with the CMM readings. The mean values of the two groups were compared using a Student's t-test, and statistical significance was established using a p-value threshold of less than 0.05. A p-value of 0.547 for the Open Tray group i.e more than 0.05—showed no statistical significance. When compared to other groups, the digital scan group showed statistically significant outcomes with a p-value of 0.031, which is less than 0.05. Within the limitations of this in vitro study, the results showed that digital impressions demonstrated significantly greater dimensional accuracy compared to conventional (open tray) impressions for parallel-placed endosseous implants.