Beyond the Scan: Techniques, Applications, and Overlooked Errors in Digital Impression and Workflows

Abstract: 

The integration of intraoral scanners (IOS) and CAD/CAM workflows has fundamentally transformed implant prosthodontics, offering unprecedented efficiency, accuracy, and patient comfort. However, the rapid adoption of these technologies has cultivated a dangerous clinical misconception: the assumption that digital data acquisition automatically guarantees prosthetic success. Consequently, overlooked aspects may allow sub-clinical inaccuracies to compound throughout the digital pipeline and ultimately compromise clinical outcome.

This presentation deconstructs the digital workflow to bridge the gap between technological capability and clinical reality. Participants will explore the optical science behind precise 3D data capture, evidence-based scanning protocols, image data registration and the critical role of virtual bite registration in implant dentistry. Together we will illuminate the hidden pitfalls and overlooked errors inherent to digital implantology. Along with an introduction to the latest cutting-edge advancements in the industry, the session will highlight how mastering these proper digital tools and records could reduce chair time and enhances overall patient outcomes.

Learning Objective:

1. Comprehend the optical science and fundamental principles behind precise 3D data capture to maximize the accuracy of intraoral scanners.

2. Master recommended scanning strategies and protocols for different clinical situations .

3. Recognize the frequently overlooked errors and sub-clinical inaccuracies within the digital pipeline that can compound and compromise clinical outcomes.

4. Integrate cutting-edge digital tools and mastered techniques into daily practice to optimize clinical efficiency, reduce chair time, and enhance patient outcomes.

Speaker:

Prof. Fok Melissa Rachel

Clinical Assistant Professor in Periodontology & Implant Dentistry

BSc, BDS, MDS (Perio), PhD, M Perio (RCSEd), M(Perio) RCPS(Glasg), FHKAM (Dental Surgery), FCDSHK (Periodontology), ITI Fellow, FHEA

Melissa Rachel, FOK is a Clinical assistant professor in the Division of Periodontology and Implant Dentistry and a specialist in Periodontology. She holds multiple roles, including Deputy Director of the Institute for Advanced Dentistry Clinical Research Centre, Assistant Dean in Global Engagement and Development, and the Co-director of the European Federation of Periodontology accredited Periodontology Postgraduate Program in the Faculty of Dentistry, The University of Hong Kong. She obtained BDS and MDS in Periodontology with honours and distinction from HKU in 2014 and 2018, respectively. In 2019, she attained memberships in Periodontics from the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh and the College of Dental Surgeons of Hong Kong. She was awarded a fellowship in the specialty of Periodontology by the College of Dental Surgeons of Hong Kong and admitted as fellow in the Hong Kong Academy of Medicine in 2023. She received multiple accolades throughout her academic career, including the Mary Sun Medical Scholarship, GlaxoSmithKline Prize in Periodontology, Hong Kong University Alumni Prizes, and the College of Dental Surgeons of Hong Kong Scholarship, among others. She was later granted the Hui Pun Hing Memorial Postgraduate Fellowship to pursue a doctoral programme in HKU and completed in 2024.  Driven by a passion for education, Melissa actively contributes to undergraduate and postgraduate periodontal and implant curricula. As a fledging clinical researcher with a keen interest in periodontal and implant research, she is currently directing multi-national clinical trials. She possesses a good publication record and has been serving as editorial board member and guest reviewer for leading periodontal and implant dentistry journals.

Course Information: