Analysis of the mesh resolution of an .STL exported from an intraoral scanner file

Abstract

Objectives: This study aimed to provide information on the accuracy of exported digital files with the different resolutions available in the CEREC 4.6.2 software obtained by means of an intraoral scanner (IOS), in addition to establishing differences between materialized models with different exported resolutions, and how these different exported files can influence finite element analysis (FEA) simulations. Materials and Methods: The upper complete arch of 10 patients was scanned through an IOS (CEREC Omnicam 1.0/Dentsply Sirona). Files of three resolution meshes digitalized by a CAD software (Cerec SW, 4.6.2) high, medium and low (IOSH, IOSM, and IOSL) were exported. Each file was evaluated by a software (NETFABB) about the number of triangles obtained and compared with the number announced by the manufacturer. Also, with a superimposition with a specialized software (GEOMAGIC X), the digital models were compared. The files of each resolution were printed (Sprintray 3D Printer), and the printed models were scanned with IOS (Omnicam 1.0) and compared with the control group (intraoral scanned high-resolution file, IOSH). FEA simulations were imported into COMSOL and analyzed under different loading conditions. Results: The number of exported triangles coincided with that reported by the manufacturer. The digital models from files of different resolution did not show significant differences (less than 1.5 um) between each other. Models printed (H, M, L) from files of the same resolution mesh (H, M, L) did not show significant differences between them either in partial measures of the arch and neither in the complete arch. FEA showed significant differences in stress concentration between different exported models. Clinical Significance: Digital models can be exported and printed in three resolutions of the mesh, without differences clinically significative. On the other hand, for future FEA applications further research should be performed in order to determine the optimal number of triangles.