A Comparison of Tooth Size and Arch Dimensions Among Measurements Taken Intraorally with 3D-Printed and Digital Models Obtained from Intraoral Scans

Abstract

Background: To compare measurements of tooth size and arch dimensions among those taken directly intraorally with those made on digital and 3D printed models produced by intraoral scanning. Material and Methods: Sixty-six participants were recruited. Intraoral tooth size and arch measurements were taken intraorally with a digital caliper. Digital impressions were taken with an iTero® intraoral scanner. The three-dimensional digital models were measured using a 3D diagnostics tool (OrthoCAD software). The same digital models were used to fabricate physical models using a resin 3D printer (Elegoo Saturn). The measurements were repeated on 3D printed models by using the digital caliper. The recorded parameters included mesiodistal tooth widths, transverse, and antero-posterior dimensions. All measurements were repeated to assess intra- and inter- examiner reliability. The validity of each measurement method was assessed by repeated measures ANOVA with post-hoc pairwise comparisons (p<0.5). Results: The mean differences among three methods for all parameters were statistically significant (p