3D Facial Scanning
A three-dimensional facial record can support dental planning and outcome assessment, with accuracy varying by scanning method.
[1]The short answer
Three-dimensional facial scanning creates a digital record of facial form for dental diagnosis, treatment planning, and outcome assessment.
[1]
What is 3D facial scanning?
How can a dental team use it?
How accurate is a facial scan?
Stereophotogrammetry, structured light, laser scanning, and mobile-device systems differ in accuracy and in how easily they connect with other digital records. Standard methods for combining facial scans with CBCT and intraoral scans remain underdeveloped.
[2]What other records might be combined with it?
Cone beam computed tomography and intraoral scans can be combined with a facial scan as part of a digital record set. The practical challenge is joining those records through a reliable method.
[1]What does the scan mean for a patient?
For a patient, the scan supplies a three-dimensional record of facial form for planning or outcome assessment. Mobile scanning is used because it can be lower cost, accessible, and compatible with digital workflows.
[1]Is 3D facial scanning safe?
Smartphone systems can capture detailed three-dimensional facial models, but their trueness and precision are less well established. Accuracy matters when a scan is integrated with other treatment records.
[2]