New study critically examines intra-oral scanning

Iveta Ramonaite, Dental Tribune International

Mon. 16. February 2026

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FREIBURG, Germany: Offering guidance for clinicians seeking to integrate intra-oral scanning effectively, a recent review conducted by researchers from the University of Freiburg has examined the technology’s clinical indications, practical advantages and limitations compared with physical impression taking. The authors reported that, as digital technology and scanner accuracy continue to advance, intra-oral scans are poised to become the standard of care, facilitating chairside workflows and optimising treatment protocols.

Dr Ahmad Amro Baradee, lead author of a recent review on the evidence-based application of intra-oral scanning. (Image: Dr Ahmad Amro Baradee)

Lead author Dr Ahmad Amro Baradee, lead lecturer of integrated clinical courses in the Department of Prosthetic Dentistry at the University of Freiburg medical centre, said that the motivation for the review stemmed from a growing disconnect between clinical enthusiasm and the supporting scientific evidence. “Intra-oral scanners are frequently promoted as a complete replacement of physical impression-taking methods, and some clinicians report operating fully digital practices without using analogue techniques. While this may be feasible in practices offering a narrow range of treatments, it does not reflect the broader clinical reality,” he told Dental Tribune International.

“Our aim was therefore to critically assess whether these claims are supported by current evidence and to provide an indication-based overview that enables clinicians to make informed decisions based on clinical needs rather than enthusiasm for technology alone,” he continued.

Evidence-based integration of intra-oral scanning

The review summarised evidence gathered from studies published over the last decade. Although the integration of intra-oral scanning requires significant financial and time investment, particularly owing to the need for team training, the technology has wide clinical applicability, the review highlighted. In particular, it concluded that intra-oral scanning delivers reliable results for single crowns and short-span restorations on both natural teeth and implants, offering accuracy comparable to that of physical impression techniques while supporting more efficient chairside workflows.

“At our university teaching hospital, intra-oral scanning has already been integrated into undergraduate education, where students can objectively assess their preparations, for example with regard to occlusal clearance and path of insertion. This objective feedback reduces reliance on subjective evaluation and helps minimise student frustration,” Dr Baradee said.

Discussing the limitations of intra-oral scanning, Dr Baradee noted that certain clinical scenarios remain challenging, particularly cases involving deep subgingival margins, movable tissue and long-span restorations, in which cumulative inaccuracies may occur. In addition, the quality of intra-oral scans is influenced by multiple factors, including operator experience, ambient lighting and the specific scanning system used.

“As a result, physical impressions remain the preferable option in certain situations. Nevertheless, recent digital approaches, such as the integration of photogrammetry or the use of specific scanning protocols and techniques, aim to address these limitations,” he explained.

Looking ahead, Dr Baradee said that he anticipates even further evolution of intra-oral scanning systems, similar to other digital technologies such as smartphones and electric vehicles. “Ongoing improvements can be expected in hardware accuracy, scanning speed and software performance. In addition, artificial intelligence is likely to play an increasingly important role in error detection and correction. These advances may further expand clinical applicability,” he told Dental Tribune International.

“Digital dentistry represents a powerful and rapidly evolving field, and its successful implementation depends on an evidence-based mindset.”

The researchers said that they are currently preparing a manuscript reporting the results of a study in which different intra-oral scanners were used to digitise the position of tissue-level implants without scan bodies, relying solely on internal implant geometry. According to Dr Baradee, this approach has the potential to save time, reduce material use and lower costs. He also believes that further improvements in scanning depth and in the capture of reflective surfaces may enhance the accuracy of such workflows even further.

Although challenges remain in implant-supported full-arch and long-span restorations, ongoing developments in scanning hardware, software and clinical workflows continue to enhance outcomes. The authors suggest that hybrid approaches that integrate intra-oral scans and physical functional impressions may help overcome certain limitations, particularly those related to capturing dynamic soft-tissue morphology.

In general, adopting intra-oral scanning can enhance the treatment experience for specific patient groups, including elderly patients, children, individuals with limited mouth opening or allergies, and those with oral defects. Beyond immediate clinical benefits, the technology enables storage, reuse and comparison of digital data over time, which improves documentation, follow-up and case management, as well as helps reduce material waste.

“Digital dentistry represents a powerful and rapidly evolving field, and its successful implementation depends on an evidence-based mindset,” Dr Baradee concluded. “Clinicians are encouraged to adopt intra-oral scanning where appropriate, as it already represents the state-of-the-art for many indications. Given the speed of technological development, continuing dental education remains essential, as even conclusions drawn in recent reviews may be influenced by advances in newer generations of intra-oral scanners,” he added.

The study, titled “Are conventional impressions obsolete? A narrative review on the applicability of intraoral scanners”, was published in December 2025 in a special issue of the Australian Dental Journal.