3D scanning in diagnostics and prevention of dental diseases in children

3D scanning technologies are gradually replacing traditional methods of visualization, treatment and prevention in dentistry. 3D scanners, which have been widespread since the 90s of the 20th century, have demonstrated high accuracy and ease of use, improving the diagnosis of some types of dental pathologies and improving the quality of dental care for patients. The purpose of this work was to study the accuracy and reproducibility of 3D scanning methods in the diagnosis and treatment of dental diseases in children. To achieve this goal, a clinical study was conducted involving children with malocclusion. Material and methods. The study involved 20 boys aged 10–13 years with various malocclusions. All of them underwent a plaster cast (group 1) and intraoral 3D scanning with the production of a 3D impression (group 2). For the cast and impression, 3D scanning of the upper jaw was performed. The measurements were taken three times by different specialists. The parameters of the upper jaw measured in this way (angles and linear variables) were studied. Results and discussion. The values of the variables showed some discrepancies for the plaster model and the 3D impression. At the same time, the 3D method showed better convergence and reproducibility of measurements made in different repetitions. Most of the surveyed dentists (6/10) preferred the 3D scanning method, considering the accuracy of measurements to be the main advantage. Another four specialists chose the traditional technology, since they had worked it out well and did not think that a small loss of accuracy affected the treatment result. Conclusion. For the studied groups of patients, certain strengths of diagnosis and treatment have been identified both with the use of 3D-scanning and traditional methods. It was found that 3D-based treatment allows for more accurate orthodontic intervention with better aesthetic and subjective effects.