By Dr. Christopher Resnik 
Problem:
Unfortunately, inherent inaccuracies are still associated with conventional intraoral scanning of edentulous arches for full-arch implants. The accuracy of the scan can be influenced by factors such as blood, saliva, soft tissue, implant spacing, and implant angulation. To date, photogrammetry remains the sole validated and accurate method for digitally recording implant positioning.
Solution/New Method:
Optisplint, by Digital Arches (https://digitalarches.com), has helped eliminate many drawbacks and inaccuracies associated with traditional scan bodies and edentulous arches.
Advantages:
1. Increased Accuracy: The Optisplint system improves accuracy by inserting scan bodies on each multi-unit abutment and then splinting them together using acrylic or composite through a central “honeycomb” system. This results in a single, splinted object, eliminating complications associated with individual scan bodies.
2. Extra-Oral Scanning: Optisplint allows extraoral scanning, eliminating patient factors such as blood, saliva, and soft tissue.
3. Verification Jig: The Optisplint can be scanned for a digital workflow and poured into dental stone to facilitate the fabrication of an accurate master cast.
4. Reduced Cost: Optisplint is more cost-effective than photogrammetry, involving less chair time and overall expense.
Summary: The Optisplint is a new and exciting technique that allows clinicians unparalleled accuracy in scanning full-arch implant positioning and the ability to deliver a 3D-printed or milled prosthesis with reduced costs and greater time efficiency.
Fig 1 / Fig 2: Intraoral scan of Optisplint
Fig 3: Optsplint secured in dental stone and may serve as a verification jig
Fig 4/ Fig 5/ Fig 6: Results in an accurate 3D-printed Chairside Prosthesis