Use of 3D intraoral scanning at the orthodontic appointment following early extraction of primary teeth

Relevance. Early extraction of primary teeth in children aged 4–7 years remains relatively common, with reported rates reaching 43%. Such cases often result in dentoalveolar anomalies and arch deformation. When selecting an impression technique for the fabrication of space maintainers, the priority should be on procedural safety and patient comfort. Digital intraoral scanning offers a modern alternative to traditional impression methods.

Materials and methods. A comparative analysis of different impression-taking methods was performed in 90 children aged 4–7 years with early extraction of primary molars. The following were evaluated: fabrication time, risk of complications, and the frequency of adverse sensations during alginate impressions (Hydrocolor 5, Zhermack, Italy), condensation silicone impressions (Zetaplus, Zhermack, Italy), and digital scanning of the dental arches (Runyes IOS-11, China). Statistical analysis was conducted.

Results. Digital intraoral scanning shortened fabrication time by 11.5% relative to alginate impressions and by 59.6% relative to condensation silicone. The incidence of gag reflex during scanning was 4 times lower than with alginate impressions and 5.67 times lower than with condensation silicone. Reports of discomfort were 8.67 times less frequent than with alginate impressions and 8 times less frequent than with condensation silicone. All differences were statistically significant for both time efficiency and patient comfort.

Conclusion. A comparative analysis of impression techniques for the fabrication of band-and-loop space maintainers after premature loss of primary molars demonstrated the higher efficiency and better patient tolerance of digital intraoral scanning compared with conventional impression methods.

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