CBCT and intra-oral scanner: the advantages of 3D technologies in orthodontic treatment

Background: The aim is to demonstrate the validity of the monitoring through intraoral scanner of the dental movements and the real impact, advantages, and convenience, in terms of treatment time and efficiency gain, to frequently monitor a patient with the scanner application. Methods: A movement control of palatally impacted canines was performed, surgically treated with laser opercolectomy. Three-dimensional models of the patient’s dental arch were obtained with intraoral scanner during a monitoring time of 4 months. The STL (Standard Triangle Language) files were superimposed with the 3D models extrapolated from the pre-operative CT (Computerized Tomography). The measurements of eruption, exposed palatal and vestibular areas, and distances between the canines and the incisors were performed, using digital technologies and with a digital caliber. Results: Descriptive and inferential statistical analysis of the data obtained from both conventional and digital monitoring has been realized and performing the T Student Test for paired data. Conclusion: The advantages of digital monitoring are numerous, like the possibility to reduce the error of method caused by manual measurement on plaster casts and the possibility to compare the pattern and amount of eruption of the canine in the same patient overtime.