Title : Comparative analysis of modern intraoral scanners: Precision clinical protocol and market leaders
Abstract:
Objective: The aim of the present scientific review is to provide a systematic analysis of leading Intraoral Scanning (IOS) technologies up to 2026. The report compares their technical characteristics, clinical performance, and integration into the digital workflow in order to assist dental practitioners in selecting the optimal solution for their clinical practice.
Materials and Methods: A review of technical specifications and available scientific literature was conducted for seven of the most widely used intraoral scanner brands on the global market. The comparative parameters included scanning speed, accuracy (trueness) and precision in full-arch rehabilitation, software capabilities (AI-based soft tissue filtering functions), system openness (export of STL, PLY, and OBJ files), and the ergonomics of the scanning wand.
Results: The analysis demonstrates that contemporary intraoral scanners exhibit exceptionally high accuracy in the fabrication of single-unit restorations and short-span fixed prosthetic constructions. However, significant differences among commercial brands are observed in full-arch scanning with regard to linear deviations. In this context, the iTero Lumina scanner, featuring Multi-Direct Capture technology, demonstrates the highest accuracy, attributed to its multi-camera system. The integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) significantly reduces clinical time through the automatic removal of artifacts (tongue, cheeks, gloves), while wireless technologies enhance ergonomics without compromising data transfer speed.
Conclusion: The selection of an intraoral scanner should be tailored to the specific focus of the dental practice—prosthodontics, orthodontics, or implantology. Digitalization through IOS not only enhances the precision of fabricated restorations but also serves as a powerful communication tool with both patients and dental laboratories. The transition to a fully digital protocol is a key factor in achieving predictable clinical outcomes in contemporary dental medicine.
Keywords: Intraoral Scanning, Digital Impression Techniques, CAD/CAM, Accuracy, Digital Workflow
