Use of the universal scan template to achieve a predictable optical impression: Preliminary data of a case series study in complete edentulous patients

BackgroundFull-arch IOS scan of edentulous areas rehabilitated with dental implants is nowadays still described as an unpredictable procedure. To improve the accuracy, a universal scan template (UST (R)) is proposed in this article. The clinician can easily assemble the template with a mechanical coupling, by matching the scan bodies with objects of known dimension characterized by specific markers. The UST (R) facilitates the scanning of an entire arch on scan bodies, reducing the learning curve, simplifying acquisition movements, shortening the scanning time, and drastically reducing the risk of distortions and aberrations of the scans.Materials and MethodsIn a case series study on 12 patients, the improvement in the accuracy of the scans with UST (R) was validated by comparing the STL files derived from scans with and without the guide in place. A titanium bar was produced from each optical impression.ResultsThe bars obtained from the optical impressions taken without UST (R) were found to be nonpassive in the mouth in the majority of the cases. On the contrary with the use of UST (R) we obtained 12 passive prosthetic rehabilitations.ConclusionsThe proposed solution may represent a valid method to improve the predictability of full arch optical impressions on implants.