From Photos to Prosthesis: The Secret to Better-Fitting Implants
Introduction
- Photogrammetry
- A way to "measure with photos." In implant dentistry, it maps the exact 3D position and angle of implants—especially helpful when you're restoring a full arch. Recent reviews suggest photogrammetry often measures these positions more accurately than standard intraoral scanning for complete-arch cases, though all methods can work when chosen and verified carefully.
What is photogrammetry?
During a photogrammetry scan, small markers called scan bodies are attached to your implants. A special camera takes a rapid series of photos. Software triangulates those images to create a precise 3D map of each implant’s location and angulation. That accuracy supports a “passive fit,” which means the bridge seats without strain on the implants or screws—a long-standing goal in implant prosthodontics.
Why dentists use photogrammetry?
Accuracy for implants: Captures the spatial relationship of multiple implants in one go (great for All-on-X). This reduces misfit, rocking, or strain on screws/abutments.
Speed: Minutes chairside; no impression material, less gagging, fewer remakes.
Comfort: No trays full of goop; minimal mouth opening time
Digital workflow ready: Data plugs into CAD/CAM for provisional and final prostheses.
How it works
Markers/scan bodies placed:Small coded markers or special scan bodies are attached to your implants/abutments.
Rapid photo capture: A dedicated camera rig snaps dozens of photos from different angles—without touching your gums or implant.
3D reconstruction: Software triangulates those photos to build a precise 3D point cloud/mesh of the markers and your jaw.
Merge with other scans: The photogrammetry model is aligned with intraoral scans (for soft tissue/teeth) and sometimes CBCT (for bone) to design your new teeth.
Design & mill/print: The lab designs the prosthesis and manufactures it—often the same day or within a couple of days, depending on the clinic.
Related Reading: Learn more about how memory shape technology works , or discover why 20-30% of traditional full arch implants are redo cases
Where it shines
Full-arch, multi-implant cases(upper/lower jaws).
Immediate load (“teeth in a day”) workflows where speed + precision matter
Edentulous arches where traditional impressions can distort or move.
How does it compare for full-arch implants?
| Method | Best For | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Photogrammetry | Multi-implant/full-arch | Very accurate implant positions, fast, comfortable | Specialized hardware/software; training cost |
| Intraoral scanner (IOS) | Teeth/soft tissue detail, single implants | Great for enamel & soft tissue detail; easy for single-tooth work | Can drift on long spans/many implants if used alone |
| Conventional impression | Many routine cases | Low equipment cost; familiart | Potential distortion, more chair time, less comfortable |
| CBCT | Bone anatomy & implant planning | Bone anatomy & implant planning | Not for surface accuracy of prosthesis; radiation; must be merged with surface scans |
We match the tool to the job. For most full-arch implant cases, we lean toward photogrammetry for its measurement accuracy, then verify with a prototype try-in before the final bridge. For single teeth and short bridges, offices often use an intraoral scanner, but can be used for full arch as well. If the mouth is hard to scan (mobile soft tissues, challenging borders), a conventional impression may make more sense. This blended approach keeps the focus where it belongs—on fit, function, and durability.