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 s, with the PROS TST significantly longer (p < 0.05, 337 ± 79 s). 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