Evaluation of the learning curve for intraoral scanning in vivo

Aim or purpose: The integration of intraoral scanners (IOS) has improved digital impression accuracy and efficiency, but mastering these devices requires practice. Understanding the learning curve is essential for optimizing training programs for new users. This study evaluates how scanning time and
total frames captured improve as students gain experience, comparing their performance to that of an experienced clinician.
Materials and methods: Twenty, fifth-year dental students with no prior IOS experience performed 20 full-mouth scans (maxillary, mandibular, and bite) on volunteer patients using the Heron IOS (3DISC). Scanning time (minutes) and total frames were recorded for the 1st, 10th, and 20th scans. An experienced clinician completed a full scan in 4 minutes (1.5 minutes per jaw, 30 seconds for bite) with an average of 3700 frames perjaw. Data were analyzed using ANOVA and t-tests.
Results: Scanning time decreased significantly from 17.2 § 2.4 min (1st scan) to 9.1 § 1.3 min (20th scan, p < 0.05), but remained slower than the expert (p < 0.01). Total frames cap tured reduced from 8150 § 420 to 4750 § 280 (p < 0.05), indicating improved technique.
Conclusions: Students exhibited significant improvements in efficiency but despite notable progress, their performance remained below expert levels, emphasizing the need for structured training. Intraoral scanning efficiency improves with practice, but training is necessary to enhance proficiency and bridge the gap between novices and experienced clinicians.

Key Words: digital dentistry, intraoral scanner, 3d models.