Abstract
The accuracy of three-dimensional (3D)-printed models fabricated using an intraoral scanner was verified by comparing it with that of plaster models fabricated using the silicone impression technique, and dimensional changes over time were also investigated.
Initially, a master model of an edentulous maxilla with implants was fabricated. Moreover, a ready-made abutment was attached to the master model to obtain baseline data. The master model was scanned using an intraoral scanner (IS, n=5), and the models were fabricated using a 3D printer (3D, n=5). To fabricate a cast model using the silicone impression technique, impressions of the master model were taken, then plaster was poured into these impressions (CM, n＝5). Next, after storing the models for one week, data were collected (3D-1, CM-1). These models were stored for an additional month, and data were collected again (3D-2, CM-2). The baseline data and the data of IS, 3D-1, 3D-2, CM-1, and CM-2 were superimposed using the software to calculate the concordance rate of the ready-made abutments, followed by statistical analysis. The median values were highest for IS, followed by CM-1, CM-2, 3D-1 and 3D-2, with statistically significant differences observed between 3D-2 and 3D-1, CM-1, CM-2.
The results indicate that the intraoral scanner had the highest reproducibility of implant position, and the reproducibility of 3D-printed models was nearly equivalent to that of plaster models fabricated using the silicone impression technique. However, while the cast models showed no significant deformation over time, the 3D-printed models showed potential for substantial deformation when stored for a prolonged period.
