Photogrammetry technology in implant dentistry: A systematic review

Statement of problem Photogrammetry technology may be useful in implant dentistry, but a systematic review is lacking and is indicated before routine use in clinical practice. Purpose The purpose of this systematic review was to assess the role of the photogrammetry technology used in implant dentistry and determine its validity as an accurate tool with clinical applications. Material and methods Four major databases, PubMed MEDLINE, Google Scholar, Scopus, and Web of Science, were selected to retrieve articles published from January 2011 to February 2021 based on custom criteria. The search was augmented by a manual search. After screening of the collected articles, data, including study design and setting, type of application, digitizer used, reference body, method of evaluation, and overall outcomes, were extracted. Results Twenty articles were included based on the selection criteria. Most of the articles confirmed that the use of photogrammetry was promising as an implant coordinate transfer system. However, few articles showed its use for 3-dimensional scanning, which might require more development. Conclusions The initial reports of using photogrammetry technology considered this method as a valid and reliable clinical tool in implant dentistry. More studies to develop the photogrammetry technology and to assess the results with evidence-based research are recommended to enhance its application in different clinical situations.