Digital impressions in contemporary prosthodontics: an overview of intraoral scanning technology, applications and future trends

Abstract

Digital technology has progressed significantly in recent years, resulting in substantial advancements in dentistry. The integration of computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM) has simplified clinical procedures while improving precision, efficiency, and communication between clinicians and dental laboratories. The introduction of intraoral scanners (IOS), together with advances in CAD/CAM technology, has further transformed conventional impression procedures. Digital impressions improve patient comfort, facilitate immediate visualization of the scanned area, simplify data storage, and enable rapid electronic transfer of information to dental laboratories. Recent investigations have demonstrated that digital impressions can provide clinically acceptable accuracy for many fixed prosthodontic and implant-supported restorations. However, their accuracy is influenced by scanner characteristics, scanning strategy, scan length, operator experience, surface characteristics, and intraoral conditions. Recent advances in artificial intelligence, photogrammetry, cloud-based platforms, and three-dimensional printing are expected to further expand their clinical applications.