Abstract
Purpose: Intraoral scanners (IOS), which enable the digital acquisition of intraoral information, have become widely adopted worldwide and constitute a core component of digital workflows. In implant dentistry, IOS are utilized not only for the fabrication of implant-supported prostheses but also for diagnostic simulation and surgical procedures. However, there is a paucity of evidence regarding the extent of IOS utilization and the challenges associated with their use in implant therapy in Japan. The present study aimed to investigate the current status of IOS utilization among dentists performing implant treatment and to examine associated issues and future perspectives.
Materials and Methods: A questionnaire survey entitled “Survey on the prevalence and utilization of intraoral scanners” was conducted among 260 dentists who are members of the Japanese Society of Oral Implantology and affiliated with the Institute of Hokkaido Plastic Dentistry.
Results: The rate of IOS utilization was 70.7％, and 90.9％ of respondents reported a satisfaction level of "generally satisfied" or higher. The proportion of respondents indicating an intention to continue using IOS was 100％. Regarding accuracy, 87.5％ of respondents considered IOS to be reliable, whereas 62.1％ expressed expectations for further improvements in accuracy. Notably, in cases involving multiple missing teeth, 66.7％ of respondents indicated that verification of accuracy is necessary.
Conclusion: The level of satisfaction with IOS was remarkably high, and its use provides significant benefits, including a reduction in the burden on both clinicians and patients. However, at present, it remains difficult to apply IOS to all clinical scenarios. Further refinement and validation are considered necessary, particularly for cases involving multiple missing teeth.
