Operators matter – An assessment of the expectations, perceptions, and performance of dentists, postgraduate students, and dental prosthetist students using intraoral scanning

Abstract

Objective to assess the expectations, perceptions and performance of different operators with varying backgrounds and training in the use of full-arch intraoral scanning (IOS).

Methods and materials Dentists (DENT), postgraduate dental students (DPG), and student prosthetists (PROS) were invited to join an IOS training workshop. Participants completed a satisfactory scan of a mannikin-mounted typodont with the total scanning time (TST) recorded. They also completed anonymised pre and post-training questionnaires covering their background, and IOS expectations and experience. Statistical analysis was performed using the Mann-Whitney U, Kruskal Wallis, and chi-square tests. Open-ended questions were analysed manually and using Leximancer.

Results Twenty-seven participants were recruited: 10 DENT; 10 PROS; and 7 DPG. Positive expectations of IOS was reported by 93% of participants. Combined TST was 285 ± 83 secs, with the PROS TST significantly longer (p < 0.05, 337 ± 79 secs). Further training need was reported by 60% of PROS and 50% of DENT versus 14% of DPG. Positive IOS experience was reported by 96% of participants, 74% perceived it to be accurate, and 63% found it easy to use. Eighty-five percent of all participants stated that cost would influence their decision of adopting IOS in their practice.

Conclusion Expectations and perceptions of IOS were overwhelmingly positive, irrespective of operator background and experience. Scanning performance and training needs depended on the operator's background. Cost of IOS remains a barrier to acquiring the technology.

Clinical significance IOS training must be customised to accommodate the needs of different operators. The cost of IOS needs revision to improve its accessibility