Whether you’re a seasoned implantologist or an expanding dental practice, investing in photogrammetry technology will elevate your treatment outcomes and streamline your workflow, ensuring your patients receive the best care possible.
Photogrammetry technology is rapidly transforming implant dentistry by delivering precise, high-resolution data for complex restorations, especially full-arch and multi-implant cases. With its ability to map implant positions with unparalleled accuracy, photogrammetry is becoming an essential tool for clinicians who prioritize efficiency, precision, and patient outcomes.
Leading systems such as the Imetric iCam4D, Tupel 3D, and the innovative Shining 3D Aoralscan Elite are paving the way for a new era in digital workflows.
Today, we're diving into the ins and outs of these cutting-edge photogrammetry solutions to help you prepare your next purchase.
What is Photogrammetry in Dentistry?
But first, let's start from the top...
Photogrammetry uses advanced imaging technology to capture three-dimensional positional data with extremely high accuracy.
In dentistry, it is particularly valuable for multi-implant restorations such as all-on-X or full arch cases, where the precise location and angulation of each implant are critical to a successful outcome. Unlike traditional methods that rely on physical impressions or intraoral scans alone, photogrammetry ensures:
- Superior Accuracy: Pinpoint precision in implant mapping to reduce errors.
- Faster Workflows: Streamlined processes that save chair time.
- Patient Comfort: Non-invasive scanning improves the overall patient experience.
Now, let's dive into the technologies we expect to lead the market in photogrammetry for dentists in 2025.
Imetric iCam4D: The Benchmark for Accuracy
The Imetric iCam4D is one of the most trusted photogrammetry systems in implant dentistry, renowned for its unmatched accuracy in full-arch implant cases. Designed to capture precise 3D implant positions, the iCam4D simplifies and enhances the workflow for prosthetic design and fabrication.
Key Features:
- Four-Camera System: The iCam4D uses a proprietary 4-camera photogrammetry system to capture highly detailed and accurate implant positions in a matter of seconds.
- Fast, Efficient Workflow: The scan time is extremely short (under 1 minute), minimizing chair time and patient discomfort.
- Error-Free Data: The iCam4D eliminates the inaccuracies of traditional impression techniques, ensuring the digital model is exact for prosthetic fabrication.
- Integration with CAD/CAM: The captured data seamlessly integrates with design software, allowing for the precise design of custom prosthetics.
Applications:
The iCam4D is ideal for full-arch and multiple-implant restorations, enabling clinicians to deliver accurate, long-lasting restorations with minimal adjustments. Its speed and precision make it a top choice for implant-focused practices.
Tupel 3D Dental Implant Scanner: Streamlined Photogrammetry for Implants
The Tupel 3D Dental Implant Scanner is an emerging photogrammetry tool that focuses on delivering accurate data for dental implant workflows. This system is designed for clinicians and labs looking for a reliable, user-friendly solution to capture implant positions with precision.
Key Features:
- High-Accuracy Implant Positioning: Tupel uses advanced photogrammetry to map implant locations, ensuring that restorations are a perfect fit for multi-unit cases.
- Compact and Portable Design: The lightweight, portable design allows for convenient use in any clinical or lab setting.
- Efficient Workflow: Tupel simplifies the process of capturing implant positions and converting the data into usable STL files for CAD/CAM systems.
- Cost-Effective Solution: Compared to more established systems, Tupel offers an affordable entry point for practices seeking photogrammetry capabilities without compromising accuracy.
Applications:
Tupel is an excellent tool for implant-supported restorations and cases requiring multi-implant positioning. It is particularly useful for practices looking to improve their implant workflows with a portable, easy-to-use photogrammetry solution.
Shining 3D Aoralscan Elite: Intraoral Photogrammetry Integration
The Shining 3D Aoralscan Elite is redefining photogrammetry technology by integrating it directly into an intraoral scanner—making it the world’s first 2-in-1 intraoral scanner with IPG (Intraoral Photogrammetry).
This groundbreaking integration offers an all-in-one solution for digital impressions and precise implant mapping, delivering both speed and accuracy in a single device.
Key Features:
- Intraoral Photogrammetry (IPG): By combining photogrammetry with intraoral scanning, the Aoralscan Elite can capture ultra-precise implant positions alongside detailed scans of the surrounding soft tissues.
- High-Speed Scanning: The Aoralscan Elite quickly captures a full arch, reducing chair time and improving workflow efficiency.
- User-Friendly Design: The lightweight, ergonomic design makes scanning easy and comfortable for both clinicians and patients.
- Real-Time Visualization: The scanner provides immediate feedback and high-quality digital models, ensuring no data is missed during scanning.
- Open System Compatibility: The Aoralscan Elite integrates with popular CAD/CAM software and workflows, making it versatile for various applications.
Applications:
The Aoralscan Elite is ideal for clinicians who need both intraoral scanning and photogrammetry capabilities in one tool. It excels in implant planning, full-arch restorations, and orthodontic aligner workflows where precise data is critical.
Why Photogrammetry Matters for Implant Dentistry
When performing multi-implant cases—such as full-arch restorations or all-on-X treatments—any inaccuracies in implant position data can lead to misaligned prosthetics, occlusal issues, and costly adjustments. Photogrammetry eliminates these risks by providing clinicians and labs with accurate 3D data, ensuring:
- Perfect Fit: Reduced need for adjustments and remakes.
- Faster Turnaround: Digital workflows streamline production, cutting down on treatment time.
- Improved Patient Outcomes: Precision reduces complications, ensuring restorations are both functional and esthetic.
Photogrammetry tools like the Imetric iCam4D, Tupel, and Shining 3D Aoralscan Elite are transforming workflows by combining speed, accuracy, and user-friendliness.
How to Choose the Right Photogrammetry Solution
When selecting a photogrammetry tool for your practice, consider the following factors:
- Accuracy: For full-arch or complex implant cases, systems like the Imetric iCam4D excel in delivering pinpoint precision.
- Workflow Integration: Ensure the system integrates seamlessly with your CAD/CAM and design software.
- Ease of Use: Portable and user-friendly systems like the Tupel or Shining 3D Aoralscan Elite provide convenience without sacrificing performance.
- Versatility: If you require both intraoral scanning and implant mapping, the Shining 3D Aoralscan Elite offers an all-in-one solution.
- Budget: Evaluate cost-effectiveness without compromising quality—affordable options like Tupel are great for emerging practices.
Interested in Learning More?
Photogrammetry is a transformative technology that has the power to capture and recreate our world in stunning 3D detail. With brands like iMetric, Tupel and Shining 3D pushing the boundaries of what's possible, the applications of photogrammetry are expanding, and the potential for innovation is limitless.
Here at Voxel, we’ve worked with thousands of dentists across the US. We know what it takes to get up and running quickly, especially with new technology. That’s why we back all of our products with a comprehensive warranty, and unlimited training and support to help get you and your staff started with your new technology as quickly as possible.
Get started with a photogrammetry unit that works best for your needs, chat with a Voxel expert! Give us a call at (281) 789-7270 or fill out a form below. We look forward to earning your business.
