The influence of brackets on the accuracy of intraoral scanning: literature data and clinical observations
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.32782/2786-7684/2025-2-5Keywords:
intraoral scanning, brackets, accuracy, trueness, precision, dental treatment, orthodontic treatment, diagnostics, oral cavityAbstract
Introduction. The literature shows a lack of generalizing studies that would help to systematize and clarify data regarding the influence of brackets on the accuracy of intraoral scanning, thereby determining the possibility and feasibility of using this technology for diagnostic and monitoring purposes among orthodontic patients.Objective of the research. To analyze available data regarding the influence of brackets on the trueness and precision of intraoral scanning, as well as to systematize clinical observations on the possibilities of using intraoral scanning in the presence of fixed orthodontic appliances.Materials and methods. The publications selected during the initial search were subject to further content analysis in accordance with the following categories: changes in the accuracy, trueness and precision of intraoral scanning results in the presence of brackets systems; brackets systems’ parameters that affect the accuracy of intraoral scanning; levels of brackets’ geometric parameters reproduction with the use of intraoral scanning technology.Results and discussions. The presence of a brackets system is associated with an increase in the levels of deviations within intraoral scanning results in regards to objective dimensional parameters of the oral cavity structures, however, these deviations in the conditions of using intraoral scanning data to control the process of orthodontic treatment are clinically insignificant. The lingual position of the brackets provokes higher levels of deviations of intraoral scanning results in regards to the objective dimensions of oral cavity structures compared to the vestibular brackets position. Available intraoral scanning technologies are characterized by the limited capabilities regarding the proper level of reproducing geometric characteristics of brackets themselves within digital environment, which limits the possibility of using scanned brackets as reference landmarks for further superimposition of intraoral scans obtained at different periods of time in order to monitor changes in the oral cavity during orthodontic treatment.Conclusions. Results of some studies indicated that deviations from the actual dimensional parameters of individual jaw areas in the conditions of intraoral scanning of patients with orthodontic brackets potentially may exceed 1 mm, which is critical if the obtained scanning data are intended to be used in the future for planning surgical, implantological or prosthetic interventions. Therefore, if it is necessary to plan further complex dental treatment of patients who are using fixed orthodontic appliances, it is advisable to remove brackets before conducting intraoral scanning; in conditions when scanning is performed only to control the results of orthodontic interventions, removal of orthodontic appliances is optional, however, deviations from the actual dimensions of individual structures of the oral cavity potentially may reach 1 mm.
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