Overview
Photogrammetry systems like PIC Dental and ICam4D capture dental implant positions using extraoral cameras and coded markers, achieving accuracy of 25-28 microns—significantly exceeding both traditional impressions (66 microns) and intraoral scanning (77+ microns) for dental full-arch cases. However, equipment costs of $40,000-80,000 require careful ROI analysis. Physical dental verification jigs remain valuable for practices without photogrammetry or as confirmation of digital accuracy.
What You'll Need
- Understanding of photogrammetry principles
- Assessment of case volume for ROI calculation
- Evaluation of current digital workflow integration
- Consideration of learning curve and training needs
Step-by-Step
Understand How Photogrammetry Works
Coded markers (dental scan bodies) attach to implants. Extraoral cameras capture images from multiple angles. Software algorithms triangulate 3D coordinates (x, y, z) and angular orientation. STL files export for CAD integration. The process does NOT capture soft tissue—requiring separate dental intraoral scan or conventional impression.
Review Accuracy Evidence
Peer-reviewed comparison (BMC Oral Health 2025) with 6 implants: ICam4D median 25.23 microns, PIC 28.15 microns, conventional splinted impression 66.05 microns, intraoral scanning 77.58 microns. Both photogrammetry systems significantly outperform traditional methods with no statistical difference between them.
Evaluate Equipment Investment
Dedicated photogrammetry systems cost approximately $40,000-80,000. ICam4D: ~$39,900 including training and starter kit. PIC offers multiple form factors (Station, Gravity, System) plus smartphone-based PIC app with pay-per-use subscription as lower-cost entry point.
Calculate Per-Case Economics
ICamBodies cost ~$4,000 per set with $100 refund per returned body—net approximately $8 per use. Photogrammetry eliminates impression materials, dental verification jig fabrication, multiple fit verification appointments, and remakes due to passive fit issues.
Assess Learning Curve
Photogrammetry accuracy remains consistent regardless of operator experience—a key differentiator from technique-sensitive conventional methods. Training typically requires 3-5 days. Systems designed for intuitive operation.
Consider Workflow Integration
Photogrammetry captures dental implant positions only. Soft tissue requires separate IOS or impression, creating two-device workflow requiring file merging in dental CAD software. Digital practices may find this seamless; hybrid practices may prefer single-step physical verification.
Identify Appropriate Applications
Photogrammetry excels for dental full-arch cases (4+ implants) where IOS accuracy degrades, immediate loading protocols, complex angulations, and high-volume practices. Physical verification remains appropriate for budget constraints, hybrid workflows, and physical try-in confirmation.
Tips & Best Practices
- PIC Dental has 49+ peer-reviewed publications and 1.4+ million clinical cases—extensive validation
- Photogrammetry accuracy is unaffected by implant distribution, distance, or arch length
- Consider lab services offering photogrammetry scanning if equipment investment is prohibitive
- Physical verification can confirm digital accuracy when transitioning to photogrammetry workflow
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Assuming photogrammetry captures everything
Soft tissue anatomy requires separate IOS or impression. Plan for the alignment/merging step in your workflow.
Ignoring ROI calculation
High equipment cost requires sufficient case volume to justify. Calculate break-even based on your dental full-arch volume and current remake rate.
Dismissing physical verification entirely
Physical jigs provide tactile confirmation that digital data cannot. Consider hybrid approach during transition.
Underestimating workflow changes
Two-device capture (photogrammetry + IOS) requires CAD merging. Evaluate software compatibility before purchasing.