The evaluation of the accuracy of shape imaging of prosthetic abutment.

Purpose: The aim of the study was the in vitro evaluation of the accuracy of shape imaging of abutment teeth using different impression compounds.

Methods: To compare the accuracy of the shape of the numerically imaged real prosthetic abutments with the tested models of abutments obtained with the replica technique, the Geomagic Qualify program was applied. Making use of the licensed program Statistica, statistical analysis of the results obtained was conducted.

Results: In the research procedures, analyses were conducted for 10 abutment premolars and 10 abutment molars. The tests allowed us to state that the dimensional accuracy of the models of prosthetic abutments obtained with the application of elastic compounds tested ensures comparable shape imaging.

Conclusions: The objective method developed and applied here is suitable for controlling the imaging of the abutment teeth. The Geomagic Qualify program that was used during the research is a reliable tool of 3D analysis for the estimation of procedure of abutment tooth preparation and indication of an error of shape of prepared occlusal surface, lateral surface of abutment and errors of shaping the chamfer zone.