Overview: Learn how to identify high-quality reference denture scans and recognize common errors that lead to poor appliance fit and unusable data.
High-Quality Scan Characteristics
A high-quality scan ensures an accurate relationship between the patient's existing denture and the new digital model.
Complete Surface Data
Occlusal Surfaces: Verify that both upper and lower occlusal surfaces have no missing data and no lifted scans. The surfaces must show clear markings across the entire area.
Intaglio Surfaces: Ensure upper and lower intaglio surfaces are complete and free of lifted scan data. Clear markings must be visible across the entire surface area.
Proper Coverage and Alignment
Scan Tracing: The scan must trace the area from the second molar to the second molar.
Identifiable Markings: The scan must capture distinct markings to allow for precise alignment.
Bite Relationship: Confirm the reference bite aligns with the digital bite to reflect an accurate clinical relationship.
Common Scan Quality Issues
Low-quality scans frequently result in poor suction or require significant manual adjustments.
Misalignment and Fit Errors
Lifted Intaglio Scans: A lifted scan on the intaglio surface causes a misaligned bite relationship.
Insufficient Impressions: Poor impressions lead to poor-fitting dentures that will likely fail to achieve proper suction.
Missing or Unusable Information
Data Gaps: Missing data within a scan causes poor denture fit. Gaps often require major adjustments to the final product.
Incomplete 360 Scans: A scan is unusable if the 360-degree view is incomplete. The scan must include the patient's tissue to successfully manufacture a baseplate for the new denture.