Why Photogrammetry?
Traditional splinted impression techniques for full arch implant cases suffer from cumulative errors: impression material shrinkage, stone expansion, and framework casting distortion. Photogrammetry eliminates each of these error sources by directly capturing the 3D spatial relationship of implant scan bodies.
How It Works
Photogrammetry uses multiple cameras positioned at calibrated angles to photograph scan bodies from different perspectives. Software then triangulates the exact 3D position of each scan body, computing their relative positions to within 5-30 microns accuracy.
Evidence
Multiple studies have compared photogrammetry to conventional splinted impressions. Bergin et al. (2022) found photogrammetry reduced positional error by 67% compared to splinted open-tray impressions. Wismeijer et al. (2023) reported zero framework remakes when photogrammetry was used for verification, versus a 12% remake rate without it.
Our Protocol
We use ICam4D photogrammetry for every full arch case. Scan bodies are placed, photographed, and the data is immediately compared to the digital model. Any discrepancy over 15 microns triggers a re-scan before design begins.